Debunking the Myths: Yes, You Can Securely Store and Share Business Files in the Cloud

With new information now available pertaining to the largest personal information infraction in history, the Equifax data breach, the security of stored data is top of mind for much of the population. The massive cybercrime led to the compromising of troves of sensitive consumer data, including social security numbers, credit card numbers, drivers license numbers and passport information. The breach set new precedents for security measures not only across professional enterprises, but also among individual members of the public. A new focus on cloud security standards, and skepticism regarding the safety of providing personal details to third parties, has birthed much misinformation sparked from fears of further attacks.

How firms share business files in the cloud should always be viewed with heightened security in mind. However, due to breaches such as the Equifax attack, many are looking for new solutions to avoid security loopholes and potential hacks of their client’s data. Because of this, many myths surrounding cloud storage and security are permeating throughout global organizations. Contradictory to preconceived notions that the cloud is inherently insecure, systems do exist to ensure information, such as credit card numbers and client records, remain continuously safeguarded against any potential threats.

One of the top misunderstandings about cloud storage is that it is not secure because files are always “floating” around anywhere and everywhere. Once a file reaches the cloud, it is viewed by the user as being out of their control, which implies that it is not safe. However, network security is one of the most prevalent and pertinent responsibilities of cloud storage providers. The notion that on-premises servers are somehow safer than cloud platforms is false and a much more complex concept.

Multi-layered security systems are put in place for today’s services that allow users to share business files in the cloud, and the right platform will have in-house security experts working tirelessly to build defense systems that preemptively safeguard users’ data from any possible security risks. Also consider that files stored solely on a computer or external drive can be considered more at risk because if the device is stolen, so is all of the stored data. Files living in the cloud, however, can be remotely deleted or moved by an authorized user if need be.

Another common misconception about the cloud file sharing process is that more data breaches occur in the cloud than anywhere else. The fact is, attacks can occur just as easily in on-premise hosting as in the cloud. In fact, on-premise is more vulnerable to malware and botnets, according to Alert Logic. Just because a file is stored in the cloud does not imply it is open to unauthorized individuals or more vulnerable to a leak or attack. Again, trusted cloud file storage providers have thorough security measures in place for users to ensure their files are guarded against such attacks.

Many enterprises worry about the difficulty of maintaining cloud security standards, which plays into the myth that on-premise data storage is somehow safer because it’s “easier” to control. Believing this myth can have unfavorable consequences, as refusing to adopt a super-secure cloud hosting service for sensitive data could mean using outdated technologies are not always compatible with modern security functions. Yes, learning and implementing new technologies and best practices can take time. However, it’s in the best interest of any business operating in the 21st century to do so, not only to stay apprised of faster and more capable software, but also to ensure the systems used are actually keeping files safe.

Additionally, the right cloud service provider can also help organizations comply with changing data-storage regulations related to their specific industry. While it’s not entirely the service provider’s responsibility to make sure each of their clients have systems in place throughout their organizations to ensure regulatory compliance, trusted providers will always ensure their platforms meet changing regulations. Having this type of partner on your side (that is, one who makes best practices for file security a key part of their operation) can only help keep your business afloat. However, relying on your cloud provider too much isn’t necessarily the way to keep files secure.

This brings us to our next commonly believed myth, that it’s solely the cloud service provider’s responsibility to make sure each user’s data is secure. Yes, the right cloud file sharing process is built with safety, security and privacy in mind. They have the resources available to keep their customer’s data protected, but the responsibility of file safety does fall on all involved parties in some way. All employees in the enterprise must be using the same approved file-sharing service, for example. Company leaders should also have a clear and specific security policy in place for the transferring of sensitive internal documents. While the cloud file-sharing service provides the platform and infrastructure to keep files secure, it’s ultimately the end users who must enforce their company’s specific privacy policies.

Choosing a secure way to share business files in the cloud is where thoughtful decision making comes into play, once your organization sees through the fallacies surrounding cloud security. Overcoming these misconceptions has a significant impact on how today’s businesses can mitigate risks and reap the benefits of choosing a secure solution. Part of your company’s strategic approach to cloud security should involve choosing a platform with safeguards in place to ensure maximum security of your sensitive data.

BrickFTP, for example, complies with the highest cloud security standards and offers both a small business cloud and enterprise plan that is right for specific businesses in a range of industries. The platform utilizes Amazon Web Services for file storage, server instances and database hosting, which adheres to strict regulatory standards, confidentiality, cloud security and protection against attacks.

Ready to choose the right cloud storage solution to keep your business files secure?