With all the technicalities surrounding cloud computing, it can be difficult to understand what new challenges it engenders.

But before we set out to understand the risks uncovered by penetration testing service providers, let’s start by answering some basic questions.

What is the cloud? A system of computing resources that includes networks, computers, and the applications that operate on them.

What is it used for? Use cases for the cloud vary depending on what the need of the user is. Generally, businesses use it to store vast amounts of customer information.

What are the challenges surrounding cloud computing? The specialists at the Cloud Security Alliance have reported these to be the top four cloud security challenges.

To help you understand each one, we’ve explained them in detail, starting with the most pertinent ones.

1. Data Breaches

A data breach is a type of attack where account information is accessed by unauthorized individuals. The purpose of this attack is to gain sensitive information such as credit card details and then to use it to access a person’s finances. Another thing hackers do with the information they steal is sell it to other parties.

Data breaches can cost companies millions of dollars. Here are some reasons why:

·         Repairs and recovery in the aftermath are expensive

·         Settling lawsuits by customers whose data was leaked is an additional cost

·         Customers lose trust in your business, leading to lost sales

2. Weak Identity, Credential and Access Management

Credential and access management has to do with how many checks a site has in place to ensure that only authorized persons are able to access an account. Implementing preventative measures such as strong passwords and multi-factor authentication leads to more robust security.

This makes it harder for hackers to uncover your password, especially with brute-force attacks, if you employ these techniques.

3. Insecure Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)

An API is a gateway to all direct and indirect components within the system. Cloud service providers hand over the reins to software developers to design these APIs.

This additional layer creates room for vulnerabilities, and incorrect authorizations and transfer of content can occur as a result. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers.

4. System and Application Vulnerabilities

A weakness or vulnerability in the system you’re using can be exploited. Common tools to exploit system vulnerabilities include cross site scripting, SQL injection, and LDAP Injection.

With constant changes to applications, it becomes necessary to conduct regular scans of the site to check for vulnerabilities. 

Lean Security offers AI-powered penetration testing services to companies all over Australia. We check for a host of vulnerabilities, including SQL Injections, Cross Site Scripting, and Insufficient Authentication

To find out more, give us a call at +61 (2) 8078 6952 or message us here.