← All Blogs

Who Holds the Reins of Security in the Cloud?

Businesses moving to the cloud will find this exciting because of the new tools available. Increased agility and scalability But then the question arises: who is responsible for keeping everything safe? Cloud security is a shared responsibility. Organizations must understand this model to maintain data security and avoid pointing fingers when things go wrong.

Let's dive deeper to explore who and what is responsible for cloud security.

What is the Shared Responsibility Model?

Cloud security is like a CSP relay race, and customers play their own role in ensuring cloud security. CSP hands you the baton. And it's up to you to take them to the finish line. However, it's important to know where their work ends and yours begins.

CSP Responsibilities

CSPs do the heavy lifting of securing your infrastructure. They build, maintain, and protect the physical and virtual components running the cloud. They also ensure that physical servers are locked down with biometric devices creating a safe environment.

Main Responsibilities of the CSP

Infrastructure security: This includes servers, storage space, network systems and many more
Physical data centre: This includes biometric scanners, CCTV and security guards. Basic threat detection: CSPs use advanced AI-powered threat detection tools to identify and fix vulnerabilities in customer systems.
Compliance and Certification: CSP adheres to strict compliance regulations from ISO 27001 to SOC 2.

Customer Responsibility in the Cloud

On the floating side. As a customer, your role is to secure everything you put in the cloud. This includes your applications, user accounts, and sensitive information. Essentially, it is your responsibility.

Key Difference Between CSPs and Customers Responsibilities

A simple Thumb rule: CSPs provide the tools and customers decide how to use them securely. Let’s break it down:

CSPs provide the sandbox, swings, and slides to secure the infrastructure.
Customers' responsibility is to make sure no one misuses the data encryption, access controls

Customer's Main Responsibilities

Identity and Access Management (IAM): Access control and authentication should be configured. Only qualified individuals with valid credentials should participate.
Data Confidentiality: Managing the confidentiality of data in transit and at rest is a responsibility.
Application security: It is recommended that systems and applications be regularly updated and patched to look for vulnerabilities and abuse.

Key Differences Between CSP and Customer Responsibility

The rules are simple: The CSP provides the equipment and the customer decides how to use the equipment safely.

Let's break it down:

CSP provides sandboxes, swings, and slides to secure the infrastructure.
Customers have a responsibility to ensure that no one violates the privacy of their data i.e., access control.

The Challenge of Cloud Shared Responsibility Model

The concept of shared responsibility for cloud security services is highly effective until something goes wrong. Here are some of the key points that situation calls for remain common:

Risk of misconfiguration - Even the best tools will not work if they are poorly configured. Incorrect configuration is like leaving the front door open and giving intruders the opportunity to take advantage of it.
Unauthorized tools - Employees often use unauthorized tools while thinking those are safe to use. These unauthorized devices bypass professional security protocols. This creates vulnerabilities that attackers want to exploit.
Lack of clarity on responsibilities - A big obstacle is confusion about roles. When each party involved in joint protection assumes that the other party maintains an affirmative duty. This ignores important responsibilities. Shared responsibility requires clean communication and proper management. It is helpful in actively working together to eliminate these errors.

Cloud Security Best Practices

Of course, there is also a blueprint to take care of when choosing a shared responsibility model.

CSP Terms and Conditions - Make sure you read the plans clearly and know what your CSP covers. And where will their role end?
Multi- Layered Security Approach - Best practices involve using a layered security approach. It includes using a combination of firewalls, encryption, and IAM (Identification and Access Management) policies instead of relying on a single security measure.
Train teams on cloud security protocols - Employees or users are always your first line of defenses. Make sure they spot red flags and are well-versed in cloud security protocols.

Read from the latest-

How Cloud Services Can Transform Your Businesses in 2025?

How to Evaluate and Choose the Right Cloud Service Provider

All CSPs have different offerings. Choosing the right cloud provider makes all the difference. Below are some things you should keep in mind before choosing the best one.

1. Security features – Make sure the CSP you choose offers features such as encryption protocols such as multi-factor authentication and real-time verification.

2. Service Level Agreement (SLA) - This agreement covers everything your CSP promises. Verifying compliance with industry standards such as HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS is important.

3. Independent Audit - Verify third party certificate or audit report. They are like a report card for CSPs, giving them a clear picture of their strengths and weaknesses.

Trending Technologies in Cloud Security

The cloud is evolving and so are tools for protection. There are two main game changers on the horizon:

AI and machine learning - They act like a never-sleeping security guard constantly scanning for unusual activity. That's AI in cloud security. Detect and mitigate threats faster than humans
Automation system - A key part of any breach is human error, and automatic updates, patches, and configurations help reduce these risks. This ensures that your protection remains strong.

Governance and Compliance

Each industry sector has its own rules and they are obliged to play by the rules. If you are in the healthcare industry, HIPAA is a must also regarding finances? PCI DSS. On a global level, you have GDPR and CCPA. Compliance isn't just about avoiding fines. It's also about protecting your customers and your reputation.

The Future of Cloud Security: What's Next?

Cloud security is not static. As technology develops so are threats and solutions.

1. ZeroTrust Architecture - This emerging model works on a simple principle: trust no one. Every request is verified and every entry point is thoroughly inspected. It's like a high-security safe that no one can enter without strict inspection.

2. Quantum cryptography - As quantum computing proceeds so is encryption. Imagine a very advanced lock even the smartest hackers can't crack it.

Conclusion

Cloud security is not a one-sided effort—it’s a partnership built on trust, clarity, and collaboration. While your CSP lays the foundation with robust infrastructure and advanced tools, your responsibility is to safeguard your applications, data, and access points. By embracing the shared responsibility model, you can create a secure, agile, and scalable cloud environment.

At InterSources, we specialize in guiding businesses through the cloud security journey. From understanding the nuances of cloud security services to implementing best practices, we’re here to help you stay ahead of risks and ensure your business thrives securely in the cloud.

We can be your business trusted partner in navigating the complexities of cloud security. Together, we’ll empower your business with solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring your cloud journey is seamless and secure.