It all began in April 2024 when hackers stole phone records from almost every AT&T customer, past and present. AT&T did tell the SEC back then, but the U.S. Department of Justice asked them to wait before telling the public. Then, on July 12, AT&T finally shared the bad news.
But the breach didn’t just hit AT&T users — it also affected anyone they called or texted.
The hackers took call and text logs that AT&T kept on a poorly protected third-party cloud. These logs showed who customers talked to, when, and how long the calls lasted. Almost everyone connected to AT&T’s network got caught in the breach. This included mobile virtual network operator users and landline customers who spoke with cell numbers between May 1, 2022, and October 31, 2022. Some customers from January 2, 2023, were also affected.
Even though the real messages and calls were not stolen, and names, social security numbers, and credit cards were safe, cloud computing security still took a big hit.
Most phone numbers can be linked to real people, giving hackers a map of who knows whom. Even worse, the data had some location information from cell towers — the kind of detail that normally needs a warrant to get.
This huge breach shows just how risky it is to ignore cloud security risks. Skipping good cybersecurity software or sticking to old security tricks can open the door to attackers quickly.
The cloud feels like a brand-new world, full of chances, but also packed with hidden dangers. And with cyberattacks getting smarter each day, knowing the risks of cloud computing is more important than ever.
In this blog, we’ll first clear up the confusing shared responsibility model between you and your cloud provider. After that, we’ll dive into the top 10 cloud data security threats — like data breaches, weak APIs, insider threats, and malware. So stick with us! You’ll also learn how to build a strong cloud security culture and future-proof your business with new cloud security solutions.
What exactly are Cloud Computing Data Security Risks?
Think about your cloud data like a house full of treasures. You hire a top security company (the cloud provider) to lock your front door. But if you leave the windows wide open (with weak passwords or bad API settings), thieves (hackers) can still sneak inside.
For example, imagine putting all your family’s jewelry in a safe. But then you forget to spin the lock. It’s not the safe maker’s fault if someone walks off with your stuff!
Every day, more businesses send important data into the cloud, tempted by how fast and flexible cloud services are. But every ew move into the cloud brings new dangers.
One big danger is API security risks, which many people ignore. Smart attackers — from lone “space pirates” to powerful hacking groups (called Advanced Persistent Threats or APTs) — now target cloud systems with stronger weapons than ever. So, strong IT risk management is now a must.
If you run a business, keeping your cloud data safe is as important as locking your front door — and checking every window twice. Using strong cybersecurity software, fixing your API settings, and getting the best cloud security solutions can cut your risks a lot.
The stakes are higher than ever. In 2024, the average cost of a data breach hit $4.88 million! Plus, almost half of all security issues now happen in cloud environments.
This clearly shows why we need better IT risk management and software development plans that focus on cloud computing security risks.
Attackers already know the cloud is a goldmine. It’s full of health info (PHI), personal details (PII), trade secrets, money records, and more.
One small mistake — like a leaky storage bucket, a stolen password, or a missed security update — can cause a huge breach. This is especially true if API security risks are not handled the right way.
Now that you see the big picture, let’s scan the horizon for dangers. Let’s also strengthen our cloud defenses with better cybersecurity software, smart software development plans, and tighter API security.
It’s time to tackle cloud computing security risks the smart way!
What are some of the top Cloud Computing Data Security Risks, and how can they be mitigated?
When we first talked about cloud security risks, it sounded simple. But real life is a lot messier. It’s like locking your house. Sure, a lock helps, but real thieves know how to pick locks, climb windows, or even trick you into opening the door. In the digital world, it’s even trickier.
While the main ideas are easy to grasp, the real problems are deeper. Each threat has its own face, and if we don’t know them well, we can’t fight them. As cloud computing grows bigger every day, keeping your cloud data safe is more important than ever.
Let’s start with one of the biggest problems: data breaches and leaks. A strong defense begins with a deep understanding. So, let’s walk through these major risks together.
1. Data Breaches and Leaks
A data breach happens when bad guys break into your cloud and steal your data. They might hack your system, guess weak passwords, or use stolen login info.
In the world of cloud computing, this is a huge deal. Cloud providers store tons of private information, like health records and credit card numbers. Hackers love this. Once inside, they grab sensitive files like secret business info or customer data. They may sell it, demand money, or use it to cause harm. This hits cloud-based apps hard.
Why is it so dangerous
Let’s look at the facts. In 2019, a simple mistake with a firewall at a big bank exposed over 100 million customer records! Even today, it’s scary. SentinelOne says 80% of data breaches in 2023 happened in the cloud.
In 2024, hackers scanned millions of AWS domains. They looked for exposed files (.env) that stored passwords. They found AWS keys in over 110,000 domains. Then, they stole loads of data.
This shows how easy it is for small mistakes in cloud security to turn into huge disasters.
How to avoid it:
Think of it as locking every door and window and then setting up alarms. Here’s what to do:
- Encrypt important data while it’s stored and when it’s moving, using tools like AWS KMS or Azure Disk Encryption.
- Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for every account.
- Follow the “least access” rule — give people only the access they need.
- Watch everything. Use tools like CloudTrail and CloudWatch to keep an eye on who’s doing what.
- Do regular security checks and testing with scanners and CSPM tools.
- Teach your team cloud safety basics and phishing scams to avoid traps.
By being alert and locking things down tight, you can stop many of the dangers cloud computing brings.
2. Misconfiguration & Human Error
Misconfigurations are accidents we cause ourselves. As cloud systems grow, they also get more confusing. And that confusion leads to easy mistakes, like leaving storage open, databases unlocked, or giving too much access to people.
According to Gartner, 99% of all cloud failures by 2025 will happen because of human mistakes.
Why is it so dangerous?
A bad setup leaves your cloud wide open to attackers. Misconfigurations are one of the biggest dangers in cloud computing today.
Open S3 buckets have already exposed millions of user records because of small mistakes during software setup.
Remember the Capital One breach in 2019? A firewall was set up wrong, and a small bug (SSRF) let hackers in. They grabbed lots of sensitive cloud data.
This disaster shows how little mistakes can turn into big disasters when cloud security isn’t tight.
How to avoid it:
The best way to stop mistakes is to mix automation with good habits:
- Use Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) tools and follow secure templates.
- Scan your cloud settings often with CSPM tools.
- Keep access tight and have coworkers review important changes.
- Teach teams about cloud safety again and again.
- Turn on features like AWS S3 Block Public Access to protect storage from wrong settings.
By building security right into your process, you can catch mistakes before they grow into bigger problems.
3. Account Hijacking and Stolen Credentials
Account hijacking happens when hackers steal passwords, API keys, or other login info. They use them to break into cloud systems.
It’s still one of the worst dangers cloud users face today. Hackers use tricks like phishing emails, stuffing old passwords, or attacking weak application interfaces.
Why is it so dangerous?
Hackers can move around like they belong when they get real login info.
53% of companies have been hacked because of stolen passwords. In 2023, cloud account threats shot up by 16 times! Clearly, password theft is a huge blind spot in cloud security.
In 2019, hackers broke into a company’s AWS admin account. They reused old passwords to get in. Once inside, they stole a ton of sensitive data.
This shows how reusing passwords and ignoring API security can cause serious harm.
How to avoid it:
Here’s how to stay safe:
- Always use MFA.
- Create strong, different passwords and use a password manager.
- Keep an eye on logins with smart monitoring tools.
- Lock down root accounts and manage risks smartly.
- Regularly change and protect API keys.
- Train your people on how phishing works and how to spot it.
Good habits and strong defenses can make it very hard for attackers to break in.
4. Insecure APIs and Interfaces
APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are how we talk to cloud apps. But if APIs aren’t locked down properly, they become a huge risk.
Why is it so dangerous?
If APIs are open to the web, attackers will aim straight for them. Bad API designs or sloppy setups let hackers steal or change data.
A report from Spacelift says 94% of businesses had issues with API security last year. That’s almost everyone!
How to avoid it:
Here’s what to do:
- Use strong passwords and role-based controls.
- Set limits to block too many requests hitting your APIs.
- Check every piece of data coming into your system.
- Use API gateways and Web Application Firewalls to add more security layers.
- Always use HTTPS/TLS for safe communication.
- Watch API usage carefully to catch weird behavior.
By putting tight fences around your APIs, you can stop many attacks before they even start.
5. Insider Threats
Insider threats come from people you already trust — employees, contractors, or partners.
In cloud security, these threats are extra hard to spot and stop.
Why is it so dangerous?
Because insiders already have access, normal security tools often miss their bad actions.
Studies show 74% of companies worry more about insider threats after moving to the cloud. That’s a serious worry.
In 2022, the LAPSUS$ hacking group used insiders to steal secret info from big companies. They attacked through cloud apps and caused huge damage. This shows just how much harm trusted insiders can do.
How to avoid it:
You can protect yourself by:
- Giving people the least amount of access they need.
- Using two-person approvals for major changes.
- Watching what users are doing, using smart monitoring tools.
- Running audits often to catch strange behavior.
- Train employees and shut down access quickly when someone leaves.
When you control who can do what and watch for signs of trouble, you can keep your cloud environment much safer.
6. Data Loss (Accidental & Ransomware)
Data loss happens when your information is either destroyed or locked away. In cloud systems, this can happen in many ways. Sometimes people delete files by mistake. Other times, machines fail, storms hit data centers, or hackers attack with ransomware.
Ransomware often works by locking or even erasing your cloud files. It might also hold your backups for ransom. Unlike a data breach, where someone steals your information, in this case, your data is just gone or frozen.
Why is it so dangerous?
Losing customer information or business records can be just as bad as getting hacked. Just imagine losing years of bank records or all your product designs! It would feel like your house burned down overnight.
Research says that even warns that data loss can happen by accident. Maybe a server crashes, or you lose an important encryption key. Worse still, a hacker could unleash ransomware on your cloud files.
Today, ransomware groups are aiming at cloud storage, too. They are breaking into services like AWS S3 by stealing keys. And sometimes, there are no backups to bring the data back. This kind of cloud problem can cost millions to fix and cause huge trouble for IT teams.
How to avoid it:
Always expect that things can go wrong. Here’s what to do:
- Take regular, tested backups: Always save important files in more than one place. Use tools like Azure Backup or AWS Backup.
- Use immutable snapshots: Turn on features like file versioning to keep older copies safe.
- Create a disaster recovery plan: Write down what to do if things go wrong. Make sure it follows top cloud safety rules.
- Control deletions: Ask for extra steps like password checks before deleting anything.
- Separate your encryption keys: Keep your keys stored in different places for better safety.
- Watch your backups: Keep checking if your backups are working.
- Have a fast response team: Train a team ready to jump into action if data loss happens.
7. Weak Encryption and Data Protection
Encryption is like a secret code. It protects your cloud data so only the right people can see it. But if the encryption is weak, your files are easy to steal. Bad encryption or poor key handling puts your cloud apps at big risk.
If your software uses old coding tricks or careless key rules, your data is wide open. Hackers love to find these weak spots!
Why is it so dangerous?
If you don’t encrypt your cloud data, it can get stolen while moving or even while sitting in storage. Shockingly, less than 10% of companies encrypt even 80% of their important cloud data.
We’ve seen this happen. In one Citrix breach, poor protection around APIs led to major fraud. Also, laws like HIPAA and GDPR require strong encryption. So, strong cyber safety is not just smart—it’s a must.
How to avoid it:
Make encryption your new best friend:
- Encrypt stored data: Always turn on strong encryption for cloud storage.
- Encrypt moving data: Use TLS/HTTPS to protect APIs in the cloud.
- Manage your keys well: Use safe services like AWS KMS or Azure Key Vault.
- Encrypt backups too: Don’t forget to lock up your backup files.
- Enforce encryption rules: Make encryption the rule, not the choice.
- Bring your own keys (BYOK): Take charge of your key safety.
- Use zero-trust networks: Trust no part of your system without strong encryption.
Encryption is like armor. It’s one of your best defenses against cloud attacks.
8. Third-Party and Supply Chain Risks (Including Shadow IT)
Third-party risks happen when you trust others with your cloud work. This includes vendors, outside contractors, and even secret “shadow IT” tools that workers use without permission.
Using outside help sounds easy. But it can create hidden cracks in your cloud system, especially across APIs.
Why is it so dangerous?
Hackers love to attack weak links. They often slip in through third-party flaws. Shadow IT makes it even worse because it sneaks around your cyber safety controls.
A survey showed that 98% of companies worry about supply chain attacks. Clearly, this is a top IT risk!
Remember the huge SolarWinds hack? It happened because of a weak spot in the supply chain. In another case, a developer used a public Docker image that was full of malware. That mistake infected their cloud apps badly.
How to avoid it:
Be careful with everyone you trust:
- Audit your vendors: Always check their security first.
- Limit access: Only give third parties the minimum permissions needed.
- Monitor activity: Watch your contractors closely.
- Use API gateways: Keep a wall between your APIs and outsiders.
- Find shadow IT: Use tools like CSPM to spot unsanctioned apps.
- Divide your data: Only share what’s needed.
- Write smart contracts: Protect yourself legally.
Good cloud safety means watching your helpers as closely as your enemies.
9. Denial-of-Service (Availability Attacks)
Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks are like traffic jams. Hackers flood your cloud apps or APIs until nothing can move.
These attacks don’t steal your data. Instead, they shut you down and frustrate your users.
Why is it so dangerous?
Downtime can cost you customers fast. People expect services to work all the time. When DDoS hits, it can wreck your reputation and kill sales.
Verizon says DoS attacks are among the top threats in cloud safety. Cloudflare even showed a big rise in DDoS attacks in 2023, hitting all types of cloud apps.
In 2020, AWS Route 53 DNS got slammed with a giant 2.3 Tbps DDoS attack—the biggest ever seen! Even strong cloud setups struggled. E-commerce apps are prime targets too, especially during shopping frenzies like Black Friday.
How to avoid it:
Build strong walls against floods:
- Use DDoS protection services like AWS Shield.
- Install web application firewalls (WAFs) to guard APIs.
- Use auto-scaling and load balancing to handle traffic spikes.
- Filter and scrub your incoming traffic.
- Set traffic limits: Stop simple flooding attempts.
- Prepare a quick response team: Fast action is key.
- Separate services: Keep attacks from spreading.
Staying online during attacks is crucial for happy customers and a strong cloud defense.
10. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APTs are like sneaky thieves who break in quietly and stay hidden for a long time. These advanced hackers look for holes in cloud apps, APIs, and software processes.
They take their time. Sometimes they steal your data for months—or even years—before you catch them!
Why is it so dangerous?
APTs can silently leak out critical files. They often slip past normal security systems by being patient and smart.
Experts at SentinelOne say APTs are skilled attackers who hit deep inside cloud systems. Sadly, many companies don’t even know they’ve been attacked until it’s too late.
How to avoid it:
Layer your defenses like a castle:
- Monitor constantly with SIEM and UEBA tools.
- Use Zero Trust rules: Trust nothing inside your cloud without proof.
- Patch everything: Keep all software updated.
- Limit movement: Break your cloud into smaller secure zones.
- Deploy endpoint defenses: Use EDR to catch sneaky actions.
- Do penetration tests: Pretend to be the bad guys and find weak spots.
- Follow threat news: Stay informed about new tricks.
- Control data outflows: Watch where your information goes.
APTs remind us that cloud safety isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a daily battle!
Conclusion
The cloud offers boundless promise – faster innovation, global reach, and flexible costs. However, without a tight security harness, it can also be a perilous journey, especially with growing cloud computing data security concerns. We’ve covered ten of the biggest cloud computing security risks that organizations face today.
By understanding and mitigating these cloud computing data security threats, your organization can sail confidently. Don’t wait for an alarm. Consider getting a professional cloud security assessment or audit.
Choosing the right cybersecurity software is essential in addressing API security risks and safeguarding your critical application programming interfaces. The future is in the cloud – make sure your cloud-based applications are ready for a safe journey.
This is where Linkitsoft shines. Linkitsoft understands the critical importance of cloud computing data security and securing your cloud environment. Our focus is on following best practices for cloud computing security risks, providing reliable cloud security solutions, and empowering your business with robust defenses, proactive monitoring, and expert guidance. We specialize in securing application programming interfaces, managing API security risks, and helping you achieve the highest standards in IT risk management. We help you implement the best cybersecurity software solutions, ensuring your journey through the cloud is secure and your data remains protected.
Linkitsoft, as a leading SaaS application development service provider, possesses deep knowledge of software development, cloud computing, data security, and security risks of cloud computing. With expertise in securing cloud-based applications and defending against API security risks, we empower businesses to build secure and scalable SaaS solutions. Our cloud security solutions help you fortify your defenses against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Partnering with experts like Linkitsoft can provide the tailored IT risk management strategies and robust cybersecurity software implementations necessary to safeguard your valuable data in the cloud.
Ready to take control of your cloud security posture? Whether it’s addressing cloud computing security risks, protecting your cloud-based applications, or managing application programming interfaces with strong API security measures, Linkitsoft is your trusted partner in cloud computing data security and software development.
