Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform that businesses use to store files, network, and conduct their operations. Azure supports businesses across all sectors and provides tools for them to operate more efficiently. Companies can also integrate new and existing applications with the Azure platform to increase their business capabilities.
As with any cloud computing platform, there are security risks associated with using Azure for crucial business functions. However, the benefits outweigh these risks, and they can be avoided by following Azure security best practices. Some of those security risks are:
1. Unauthorized entry
Cloud computing platforms allow people to log in from remote locations, so cybercriminals can take advantage of this to covertly steal sensitive information. Businesses that use Azure can suffer this same fate if they do not properly secure the platform.
It is easier to steal files from a cloud computing platform than from a physical office because hackers can infiltrate cloud systems anonymously from anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, physical offices are often tough to get into because of the solid security presence (including geofencing sometimes) at most important company buildings.
2. Data leaks
When a company stores large volumes of data on Azure, they are at risk because that data might leak if the Microsoft platform suffers a cyber-attack. Although such attacks are not frequently witnessed, it is a valid concern because data leaks can subject them to penalties or lawsuits for breaking data protection laws.
It is difficult to prevent data leaks because businesses that use cloud platforms have no direct influence on their security policies. It is recommended to only use platforms like Azure that have a stellar security track record.
3. Unsecured APIs
Companies use application programming interfaces (API) to customize their cloud computing experience when they use Azure. APIs facilitate communication between applications thereby allowing businesses to integrate Azure with software that benefits their operations. However, this poses a security risk because some APIs have vulnerabilities that cyber attackers can exploit.
4. Malware injection
Threat actors can inject malware into a business cloud environment and make it execute their commands. Malware injections can be effective when companies use Azure as a Software as a Service because the malicious codes disguise themselves as legitimate processes when they run.
Upon successful malware injection, hackers can steal data, change it, eavesdrop on conversations, and carry out other malicious activities.
How to Minimize Azure Security Risks
It is almost impossible for a business to fully eliminate all the security risks that come with using a cloud platform like Azure. However, they can minimize it by applying the following tips:
Embracing the shared responsibility model for security
When using a public cloud platform, companies, and the service provider are both responsible for keeping the platform safe. This differs from private data centers where the company bears sole responsibility for protecting its cloud infrastructure. Microsoft Azure provides any company that uses their cloud services with documentation that defines their roles in various security situations. Business leaders have to embrace this shared responsibility model and develop strategies to handle database management and potential cyber-attacks.
Give employees cloud security training
All employees in organizations that use Azure are potential targets for cybercriminals, so business owners should mandate that they all enroll in cloud security training programs. This will teach them how to protect themselves and their organization by identifying and responding adequately to cyber-attacks.
Use Identity and Access Management Systems
Companies should use identity and access management (IAM) systems to ensure that only verified employees can log into the cloud system at all times. They should also restrict users to parts of the system that directly relate to their job. This will limit the damage hackers can cause if they manage to steal an employee’s login details.
Endnote
Azure is very helpful to businesses because it allows them to operate efficiently and gives them opportunities to scale. These advantages come with security risks that can disrupt operations or put companies out of business. However, if they follow Azure security best practices and conduct proper risk assessment, they will minimize these risks and flourish.
