The recent popularity of SaaS applications has contributed to a rapid increase in cloud security breaches. Is it time for organizations to rethink their cloud security strategy?
Many businesses are switching from traditional software installation to Software as a Service (SaaS) because it is more cost-effective and saves the company money on IT staff as well as resources. However, this shift also means that there is less control over how data is stored and accessed which can lead to major security issues. The following article discusses what SaaS Cloud Security entails, why it’s important, common security issues with Saas, and how these problems can be avoided.
There are many software companies or data security companies like Continuity Software which provide data-protection solutions, by adding a layer of security that prevents attackers from penetrating your storage systems and reaching the mass of data that is stored there.
What is SaaS cloud security?
Among the three types of cloud services, SaaS platforms need to offer the highest level of security. This is because SaaS providers house all the resources on which the platform runs. And so, SaaS cloud security refers to the security practises being followed to protect the entirety of the SaaS application and all the data stored within it.
Since businesses are shifting away from traditional software installation, it is more important now than ever to ensure that data is protected when using SaaS platforms. Pen testing cloud assists enterprises in improving overall cloud security, avoiding breaches, and achieving compliance.
Why is SaaS security important?
There are several reasons why SaaS security is important.
- First of all, because businesses are moving away from traditional software installation, there is less control over how data is stored and accessed. This can lead to major security issues if proper precautions aren’t taken.
- Additionally, since SaaS platforms are often used by multiple users, it is important to ensure that only authorized users are able to access confidential information and/or sensitive data.
- Finally, SaaS platforms are often used to store confidential information such as customer data and financial records, so it is essential that these files are protected from unauthorized access.
What are some common security issues with Saas?
There are several common security issues with Saas which include:
- Data leakage: Unauthorized individuals can gain access to sensitive data through a SaaS platform. This can be a major problem if the data includes confidential information such as customer data or financial records.
- Insufficient authentication: Many SaaS platforms do not require strong authentication measures, making it easy for unauthorized users to gain access to sensitive data.
- Lack of visibility over SaaS platform activity: It is impossible to monitor how the data on a SaaS platform is being used which makes it difficult to determine if unauthorized individuals are accessing sensitive information.
- Vulnerability in web interface authentication measures: If there are security issues with the website’s login page, this can compromise all other pages on the site. For example, some companies have had their entire customer database compromised because hackers gained access through weak passwords that were set up by employees for their own personal use.
Security breaches can lead to compliance violations and loss of valuable business assets but they also pose significant risks when it comes to liability claims. Not only does an organization risk facing fines from regulatory agencies such as HIPAA/HITECH and the PCI DSS, but they may also be held liable for damages resulting from a data breach.
How can security be achieved in SaaS applications?
There are several steps that businesses can take to avoid the common security issues with Saas:
- Selection – It is important to select a SaaS platform that has strong security measures in place.
- Cut out the middle-man – Businesses should carefully vet any third-party vendor who will have access to their sensitive data.
- Security measures – It is also essential to create a comprehensive security plan that includes employee training, secure authentication measures, and regular monitoring of the SaaS platform.
- Insurance – Businesses relying on SaaS services as well as SaaS providers should ensure that they have sufficient insurance coverage to help them quickly recover from a data breach incident.
- Updates – It is important to update the SaaS platform regularly, as this will help to address any security issues that may arise. As a good practice, keep your systems’ firewalls, security software and operating system up-to-date.
- Back-up plan – In the event of a data breach, it is important to have a backup plan in place to ensure that business operations can continue as normal.
- Regular audits – Businesses should also conduct regular audits of their SaaS platform to ensure that the security measures are effective and up-to-date.
Who is responsible for security in SaaS?
The responsibility of securing SaaS applications majorly falls into the hands of the provider since they have control over all the resources being used. However, the end-user should take security measures to prevent breaches from taking place under their roof.
Fortunately, most SaaS providers tend to have a designated team or individual who is tasked with securing the cloud platform. It is important to work with this individual or team to ensure that your data is safe and secure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential to take precautions when using SaaS applications so that you stand a better chance at protecting your data from unauthorized access. By selecting a platform with strong security measures, and creating a comprehensive security plan, you can help safeguard your confidential information as well as maintain compliance with industry regulations.