Cloud Computing Privacy
Since it emergence almost four years ago, cloud computing is being hailed as the next evolutionary step in computing. Similar to every emerging technology which is predicted to outdo its predecessor, there are some ambiguities associated with the Cloud as well. Critics are of the opinion that availing services, running application instances and storing data on the Cloud poses a threat of privacy infringement. Some of the pivotal queries that need to be addressed before integrating the cloud architecture within an enterprise include:
Are the remote servers adequately protected against malicious attacks such as hacking, phishing etc?
Is the cloud infrastructure safe from physical intrusion?
Would the privacy policies suffice to protect confidential information?
Assessing the privacy provision of your cloud service provider
All cloud providers provide their cloud security provisioning vis-à-vis privacy policy for potential clients to review before subscribing to their services (usually available in the footer on the providers’ website). The privacy policy should provide an unobstructed view of where the information will be stored, highlight availability zones, data centers, and mention protocols that will determine access to your cloud servers. A thorough analysis of information data flow would help identify vulnerabilities and loopholes (if any). Most cloud providers however have very strict policies pertaining to cloud redundancy, monitoring and offer ironclad data security & backup.
Even if everything looks hunky dory, ALWAYS have your IT department review this document thoroughly to determine what is offered beyond the marketing copy on the website.
Availing the right flavor of cloud computing
Cloud computing is available in various flavors each varying from another in terms of facilities and amenities provision. Selecting the right one, which closely aligns with the objectives and goals of your enterprise, is imperative. A private cloud might provide beefed up security and privacy options than a regular public cloud, hence you can opt for a hybrid private/public cloud which bestows the advantages of both.
