Third-Party Data Security: What Every Cloud-Connected Business Should Know

by Stephanie Faris on Tuesday, July 10, 2018 13:30

Security seems like it's getting simpler, as companies pay cloud service providers a monthly fee in exchange for providing safe, reliable storage for their data. However, by entrusting their data to a third party, businesses hand over control, which can be dangerous. By 2019, 60 percent of enterprises are expected to have traded on-premise software for cloud-based solutions, which also means their security will be handled by an outside vendor.

Whether your business is relying on the cloud for one application or everything you do, it's important to know the risks so that you can safeguard against them. Here are three major areas of consideration as you take stock of your security practices.

Small Businesses on Alert

It can be tempting for small businesses to assume they'll never fall victim. After all, cybercriminals are more likely to have large corporations on their radar. But there are several reasons small businesses can become private targets, not the least of which is the fact that hackers may assume they're less likely to have top-of-the-line security software in place.

Another factor putting your small business at risk? You're likely relying heavily on third-party vendors. Not only does this offer cost savings over having to purchase servers and software, but you also won't have to invest in I.T. support personnel. Not having dedicated personnel, though, means you don't have a team specifically devoted to safeguarding your network infrastructure and devices.

The Need for Oversight

From the time you choose your cloud service provider, you should start asking questions about the security measures that vendor takes. Read the fine print and discuss your concerns with a representative before signing on the dotted line.

Once measures are in place, you should continue to hold your cloud solutions providers to high standards. If you aren't sure whether you can trust the security being provided, consider paying for a technology audit that will identify weaknesses in your network.

On-Premise Security Relevance

Your server-level security isn't your only concern. The many devices connected to your network need to be secure, as well. Make sure each of your smartphones and tablets can be remotely wiped in case one is misplaced. If you have laptops and desktops, keep the virus software on each device up-to-date and make sure each is password protected.

One major vulnerability found in many business environments happens at the point of disposal. If you discard a device with a hard drive intact, it could fall into the wrong hands, leading to a data breach. Make sure you thoroughly wipe and shred each drive before disposal to maximize your business's security. This small extra step can be the one thing that saves your business from a costly data breach.

National Computer Warehouse Services offers mobile hard drive destruction services. Our multistep process will not only ensure your drives are wiped, but that any data that remains on them is completely inaccessible. In addition to coming to your location to destroy all drives, we can dispose of any equipment, utilizing one of our many recycling center partnerships.