Security and Privacy Concerns Dog the Cloud

Karen A. Frenkel Avatar

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Security and Privacy Concerns Dog the Cloud

Security and Privacy Concerns Dog the CloudSecurity and Privacy Concerns Dog the Cloud

Cloud security remains a top concern this year, as do unauthorized access, malware, and DoS attacks

Security and PrivacySecurity and Privacy

70% of IT professionals surveyed worldwide said security and privacy of data and systems in the cloud are a top worry, up from 63% in 2015.

Top Three Cloud Security ConcernsTop Three Cloud Security Concerns

Unauthorized access: 69%,
Malware: 37%,
Denial of service attacks: 34%

Risks Associated With the CloudRisks Associated With the Cloud

Though cloud service providers have prioritized security, cloud computing is still associated with unauthorized access by employees and third parties, sophisticated attacks and lack of visibility into what is happening across cloud IT environments.

Cloud Providers' Security MechanismsCloud Providers’ Security Mechanisms

44% of cloud users believe cloud providers offer adequate security controls, and 41% said the security of their corporate data and IT infrastructures improved due to cloud adoption.

Data Worries PersistData Worries Persist

53% of the IT professionals surveyed named loss of control over data as the second main concern with the cloud.

Hybrid Cloud Is PreferredHybrid Cloud Is Preferred

55% of respondents are considering a hybrid cloud approach. 40% of cloud users have already deployed the hybrid model, which enables them to balance costs, business benefits and data security.

Interest in Public Clouds DecreasesInterest in Public Clouds Decreases

Interest in the public cloud has weakened significantly: It is used by just 21% of the respondents and planned by only 9%.

Most Common Hindrances to Cloud AdoptionMost Common Hindrances to Cloud Adoption

Insufficient security mechanisms: 56%
High costs and small select: 54%
Lack of compliance guarantees: 39%

Employees Pose the Most RiskEmployees Pose the Most Risk

61% of the respondents said their employees pose more of a risk to data security in the cloud than any other parties.

Visibility Into User Activities Is KeyVisibility Into User Activities Is Key

93% said visibility into user activities in the cloud is an important element in cloud providers’ security guarantees.

Most Popular Cloud ModelsMost Popular Cloud Models

Software as a Service: 73% in use, 50% planned,
Infrastructure as a Service: 34% now, 41% planned

Karen A. Frenkel Avatar