Key Takeaways:

• Organizations must understand the shared responsibility model of cloud security by managing access controls, permissions and network configuration. 
• Organizations should start with a secure cloud computing architecture and enforce security on their portion of the shared responsibility model with cloud service providers.
• To ensure ironclad cloud security, remain vigilant and take proactive measures in an ever-changing threat landscape.

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As organizations mature in their data and application migration to the cloud, cloud security is a top priority. Cloud computing has revolutionized how organizations operate, enabling them to easily scale their operations and be cost efficient. Along with these benefits, this transformation brings the additional responsibility of ensuring a secure cloud environment.

Cloud security mistakes and potential threats

A common mistake in cloud security is the misunderstanding of the shared responsibility model between cloud service providers (CSPs) and the organization using the cloud services. CSPs offer secure services, but it is the organizations' responsibility to use those services securely. This key distinction highlights the significance of "security of the cloud" versus "security in the cloud." Insufficient access controls, excessive permissions and a lack of privileges are common vulnerabilities that lead to costly security breaches.

Understanding the potential dangers of these mistakes is crucial. Misconfigured cloud services can expose sensitive data to unauthorized access or exfiltration. Moreover, implicit trust can lead to undetected persistent threats. Overly permissive access to storage services has resulted in significant data breaches, while improper network security configuration can jeopardize critical infrastructure components.

Unfortunately, mistakes related to cloud security are exceedingly common. Countless organizations have suffered the consequences of these missteps, highlighting the importance of proactively addressing and preventing them.

Steps to avoid cloud security mistakes

Organizations must adopt a secure cloud computing architecture and enforce security on their portion of the shared responsibility model. Key steps include:

1. Properly implementing security controls, leveraging FedRAMP-approved services and adhering to established frameworks, such as NIST 800-53 and or the Risk Management Framework, to ensure comprehensive security measures

2. Following the principle of least privileges, limiting access to only what is necessary to reduce the risk of unauthorized actions

3. Utilizing multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security of user authentication

4. Adopting a zero trust approach, where trust is never assumed and continuous verification is mandatory

5. Continuously monitoring and auditing your cloud environment to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities.

Preventing future cloud security mistakes

To ensure ironclad cloud security, it is important to remain vigilant and take proactive measures. This includes continuous monitoring and implementing multi-layered security to detect threats early. Analyzing log data from software-as-a-service solutions on a regular basis can help identify suspicious activities. By making informed, risk-based decisions from these insights, organizations can effectively protect their data and assets.

By prioritizing these essential practices and remaining committed to security, organizations can strengthen their cloud security posture and minimize the risk of security incidents and breaches. In the ever-changing landscape of cloud computing, these measures are crucial for safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining the trust of customers and stakeholders.

Learn more about how we support customers with cybersecurity solutions and capabilities at SAIC's Cybersecurity page.