Businesses are beginning to realize the benefits of cloud computing and adopting it to make their operations more efficient. However, the use of cloud platforms comes with security risks that companies need to understand, evaluate and plan for. Cloud security professionals are well aware of these risks and are developing strategies to address them.
Implementing cloud security strategies comes with a lot of adaptation and innovation because cloud business platforms differ from each other, and cybercriminals often upgrade their hacking skills. Cloud computing platforms have also evolved over the years, and security tools have been upgraded as well. In 2024, these are the emerging trends for cloud security tools that businesses should consider.
Machine learning and artificial intelligence
The world has recently witnessed widespread use of machine learning (ML) and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) to make software more efficient and easier to use. This trend is also evident in the field of cloud security. Cloud security software developers use machine learning and artificial intelligence to create tools capable of quickly detecting and responding to cyber threats.
Build tools with zero trust architecture
Software developers are increasingly building cloud security tools with Zero Trust architecture. These tools help companies always verify the identity of users trying to access their cloud computing platforms. This zero trust approach works on the principle of never trusting anyone, and always verifying their identity. It eliminates complacency and prevents security incidents.
Automate security features
Automated cloud security tools are becoming more popular because they allow cybersecurity professionals to automate routine security processes and response protocols. It also simplifies the cloud security posture of businesses, giving them more opportunities to scale their operations.
Data privacy regulatory compliance
Compliance with data privacy regulations is one of the key drivers of enterprise cloud security initiatives. Government agencies have data protection laws that guide the use and storage of data in cloud computing platforms. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, lawsuits, or business closure. Using cloud security tools to comply with data privacy regulations is also important for maintaining trust and a positive reputation with consumers.
Increased use of managed cloud security services
Some companies may find it difficult to hire and maintain the services of a cloud security expert who can effectively use the right tools to protect them from cyber threats. They outsource their cloud security to third-party companies that will monitor their cloud environment and respond appropriately to threats and suspicious activity.
Increased ability to prevent malware infections
Cybercriminals often upgrade their attacks and find new ways to inject malware into a company's cloud computing platform. To combat this, software developers continue to develop cloud security tools so that they can detect and prevent ransomware attacks, DDoS attacks, and other forms of malware from entering the system and causing damage.
Detect weaknesses
Cloud computing platforms are private by design so that data stored on them remains protected. Cloud security tools are also designed to integrate with these platforms so you can detect vulnerabilities. The ability to detect vulnerabilities will inform cybersecurity professionals of the issue so they can find and patch vulnerabilities to prevent a data breach.
Types of cloud security tools
There are several types of cloud security tools that businesses can use to protect themselves. The tools a particular company uses depend on its unique security needs, the design of its cloud environment, the nature of operations, and the likelihood of being attacked. Here are some common types of cloud security tools and a brief description of their features:
Access management tools
Access management tools allow employees to have distinct login credentials to a company's cloud platform, rather than sharing a single account. These tools will verify the identity of any employee trying to log into the platform, preventing cybercriminals from gaining entry.
Encryption tools
Encryption tools convert data that employees send to a cloud platform into an unreadable format before storing it. This makes it useless to any cybercriminal who intercepts it. Only authorized legitimate employees will have access to the encryption keys that can make the data decryptable.
Multi-factor authentication tools
Cloud security tools with multi-factor authentication capabilities validate employees' login attempts by sending them a code to confirm who is trying to access the cloud platform. This extra layer of protection has become crucial in recent years as companies increasingly embrace remote workforces.
Employees who live in different countries or regions far from their company offices have to log in to their cloud platform to do their work. The system must make sure that it is they who are logged in, and not someone who stole their login information.
Security monitoring tools
There are security tools designed to detect intrusions and unusual activities in a cloud computing platform and notify the appropriate personnel to investigate them. These tools are also usually designed to detect and isolate malware to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the platform.
Data loss prevention tools
Businesses store their data on the cloud and install software there, but if they are attacked, the safety and security of their data becomes paramount. DLP tools keep data safe from internal and external threats and, in some cases, create backups to facilitate disaster recovery efforts.
Vulnerability scanning tools
Cloud security professionals use these tools to scan for vulnerabilities and proactively find threats in the system so they can remove them before they cause any damage. This keeps their business from being disrupted by cybercriminals who can exploit vulnerabilities that may exist.
Endnote
Businesses that use cloud computing platforms in their operations should consider using cloud security tools to secure their data and ensure their business continues uninterrupted. Cybercriminals target companies that store their data online because they can hold it for ransom and make a lot of money. They can also steal their data and sell it to people on the dark web – or use consumers' personal information to commit large-scale financial crimes.
Fortunately, cybersecurity professionals are constantly innovating and developing new cloud security tools with an array of features to keep businesses safe.
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