Cloud apps? In the event of a hack-failure, can you continue to work?

More and more software vendors are FORCING you to move to the cloud to use their applications, although local use is still possible. We are talking here about “Cloud Computing” or “SAAS” (software as a service).

There are many software, such as WinBiz, Crésus, Bexio, OfficeMaker, Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, etc…

When we choose to “move to the Cloud”, it means that our IT infrastructure is stored offsite, in a datacenter managed by its “Cloud Computing” provider.

In this way, you are obliged to use the software installed in the Cloud and to store your data also in this Cloud.

If one of these providers is hacked or suffers a major computer failure or goes bankrupt, what happens to your data and software?

• How long will you be blocked and unable to use these software?
• What will happen with this data?

In reality, it becomes very problematic to manage your business, because no Cloud service is available in these situations and your data is inaccessible.

When a cloud provider goes out of business (bankruptcy), your data may no longer be available. This means that any data you entered will no longer be accessible or even retrievable.

First of all, you have to start analyzing whether it is possible to save your data locally and in what format.

• Would it then be possible to import your data into another software (local on your computer or also from another Cloud provider)?
• Is there another software on the market that is compatible with my data or do I need to develop new software to import them?

Many HES schools see this “Cloud Computing” as a major development, but fail to mention the dangers that this system entails, nor the consequences in the event of a breakdown, hacking or bankruptcy.

The MegaUpload case, which stored a multitude of data in the Cloud, was judged and had to close shop, which affected all users in the world by permanently depriving them of their data.

It is important to know that it becomes easier to hack and steal data with the Cloud.

If a hacker obtains your cloud access data, they can do whatever they want, namely, spy, manipulate the data, send false information to your customers or even redirect them to illegitimate sites.

Data privacy is also important!

It may even happen that “Cloud Computing” service providers use your data for a purpose not provided for in the contract (marketing, etc.).

Is your cloud provider really able to save your data and return it to you in a format compatible with other software?

An analysis of your situation could certainly be useful to you.

Do not hesitate to consult our website for more information, by clicking on the links below:

https://www.macwin.ch/en/our-it-and-web-services/mac-and-windows-data-backup/

https://www.macwin.ch/en/our-it-and-web-services/it-security/