Cloud Migration: 12 Risks and How to Avoid Them

Far less consumer control: The end-user does not have complete autonomy when running cloud applications. Much of the logic and processing is done on a separate server. An attack on this server could compromise the data of all your users, sinking a successful application overnight.

Unauthorized instance spawning: As you know, it is very simple to spin up a new "instance" of a virtual machine or container through any major cloud provider. However, if the administrative credentials are compromised, a malicious user could spawn new instances that cost your company a great deal of money. These instances could also potentially connect to your other instances and steal data from them.

Potential API vulnerabilities: Most cloud application development involves utilizing an API to make common calls easier and more intuitive. However, any user of the application can use one of a variety of tools to see both the URL to each API call and the parameters it expects. If credentials aren't checked with every API call, you may have trouble.

Shared cloud services exploits: By nature, the servers that power the cloud are shared by multiple companies. Though companies try to logically segregate each company's data, it may be possible for an attacker who has access to the server to exploit it and steal your data.

Secure deletion issues: From time to time, you will need to safely delete data. That can be very easily done on desktop applications, but it becomes more complex when you use multiple servers and providers (and, of course, cached data of the end-user).

Improper user privileges: Any company's cloud credentials could get stolen. Every major cloud service offers an internal user management feature, where people are assigned roles that have privileges. If everyone shares an account, there is an even higher likelihood of this.

Single-vendor monopoly: Cloud providers have attractive offers to begin with, but if you need to change providers, it can be very difficult and time-consuming. This can cost a huge amount of money and time.

Overworked IT staff: Largely overlooked, any cloud migration plan can put a large burden on your IT staff. If their days are already overflowing, it can make the job unbearable, and egregious mistakes can be made.

The insider threat: As always, there is a risk of an insider threat. Unlike traditional software, an insider with administrative cloud access can completely ruin an application and a company's reputation in seconds.

Data loss: Through using multiple providers, anything from an attacker to a power outage at a data center may incur sudden, unexpected data loss. Without a proper backup plan, this can instantly put an application out of commission.

Too many suppliers: With so many suppliers of cloud programs, your data may go through several providers. If a single provider is compromised, the data may go out of your control.

Too little research: Many organizations instantly want to switch after hearing of the advantages of the cloud. However, in their excitement, they fail to do the proper research. This can lead to fatal errors.