Cloud storage is a like a double-edged sword. It’s a reliable way to store data, and 64% of companies use it for this purpose. However, without the right security measures, it’s vulnerable to ransomware and other kinds of malware.
The news appears to confirm this. Osterman Research told CNN that ransomware remains a constant problem in many organizations, especially for small businesses that often have limited resources to deal with the problem.
The price of ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts important files that can only be accessed if you pay a ransom. This happens when you click on a bad link or download an attachment that’s spiked with a malicious code. SC Media reported that about 70% of ransomware attacks were carried out by phishing via emails or social media networks.
Two out of three companies that have experienced ransomware attacks usually give in to the hackers’ demands because their data is important. That can be an expensive mistake because paying the ransom doesn’t guarantee that you will get your files back. Each ransomware incident can cost over $100,000, forcing many small businesses to close shop within six months.
In 2017 alone, cybercriminals made more than $1 billion from ransomware attacks. About 70% of these attacks were caused by careless employees who opened questionable emails or downloaded suspicious attachments.
Disturbing aspect
The most disturbing aspect of ransomware is that it can be perpetrated by someone inside the organization. This can be a vengeful current or former employee, or business partner. To get back at the people who have wronged him, the disgruntled employee may steal sensitive documents and try to disrupt company operations.
Knowing this, can you trust cloud backups? Are they safe from these threats? It all depends on your cloud service provider, the kind of service you have, and the precautions you take.
Choose what you need
As a rule, the type of security you need depends on the kind of data you have. For day-to-day file sharing, there’s no need to spend much for a good cloud storage solution. However, if you want to protect critical business files, a more secure service is recommended.
In general, files that are stored in the cloud are safer than those that are saved in your laptop or smartphone. This is because cloud storage keeps your data in secure servers that are usually owned by big companies, and this can be easily accessed via the internet.
Cloud service providers like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon normally store files in secure data centers nearby, which is like keeping your money in a large bank. You have nothing to worry about even if your computer crashes or someone breaks into your home and steals your hard drive. On top of that, your data is encrypted to shield it from hackers as it travels from your desktop or smartphone to your cloud backup service.
Test the service
To maximize your cloud investment, choose the right provider. Test the cloud storage service to ensure that it meets your specific requirements. A provider may have the best protection, but if you don’t understand how the system works and don’t take advantage of it, that could make your company vulnerable to ransomware attacks and other problems.
To make the most of cloud backups and other cloud services, be sure to consult the experts at Safebit Solutions. We have been operating for more than a decade, providing small and medium-sized companies in the Houston–Baytown–Conroe area with advanced yet affordable technology to boost their business. Get in touch with us today for managed IT services and network support. We’ll be glad to help!
