As cloud technology advances, providing ready access to data, developers benefit while security practitioners face challenges. The surge in datasets accessible through cloud adoption increases the risk of sensitive data falling into the wrong hands. A robust security program becomes paramount to prevent data breaches.

In this article, we delve into the ten critical cloud security risks identified by Unit 42 and Prisma Cloud researchers in their Cloud Threat Report, Volume 7. As an IT Cloud Security expert, we will provide insights into tactical goals for each threat, along with actionable recommendations to fortify your cloud environment.

1. Failure to Properly Manage IAM Policies

IAM credentials are prime targets for threat actors. Unit 42's research reveals alarming statistics — 83% of organizations have hard-coded IAM credentials in their source control management systems, and 76% do not enforce MFA for cloud accounts. To safeguard your organization:

• Implement a least privilege architecture for each IAM role.

• Automate IAM credential cycling.

• Set up alerts for any modifications to IAM roles.

2. Lack of Operationalization of Cloud Audit and Log Data

While cloud platforms generate vast amounts of data, 76% of organizations neglect cloud storage audit logging policies. To leverage this gold mine of information:

• Enable CSP tools to reduce log noise.

• Consolidate cloud log monitoring with third-party security applications.

• Prioritize critical logging sources and events.

3. Extended Response Times to Cloud Alerting

Addressing alerts promptly is crucial. The average alert dwell time is 145 hours, contributing to alert fatigue. Enhance your response strategy:

• Set time requirements based on alert criticality.

• Prioritize and address critical alerts first.

• Fine-tune alerting policies according to organizational needs.

4. Failure to Assess the Cloud Threat Landscape

A staggering 63% of production cloud codebases contain unpatched vulnerabilities. Scanning for vulnerabilities and misconfigurations is imperative:

• Perform quarterly security assessments.

• Conduct vulnerability and misconfiguration scans before production deployment.

• Utilize network scanners for exposed systems.

5. Unaware of Cloud Threat Actor Group Operations

Understanding your cloud threat landscape is pivotal. Tactics to identify and mitigate threat actors include:

• Subscribe to threat intelligence platforms.

• Identify threat actor groups targeting your industry.

• Train security staff on cloud attack techniques.

6. Failure to Detect and Properly Handle Cloud-Targeting Malware

With 63% of production cloud codebases containing high or critical vulnerabilities, runtime monitoring is essential. Ensure visibility into cloud instances operations:

• Deploy and configure cloud workload protection (CWP).

• Implement alerting, prevention, and handling policies for malware.

7. Redundant Security Tool Operations

While redundancy is logical, 76% of organizations with multiple security tools create blind spots. Recommendations include:

• Reduce independent security tools.

• Integrate security tools for unified platform coverage.

8. Multiple Cloud Operation Owners

Centralizing ownership of cloud security operations is vital. Assign responsibility to a single entity, implement hierarchical structures, and scan all cloud infrastructure regularly.

9. Ignoring Zero Trust Principles

IAM policies are the bedrock of a secure Zero Trust architecture. Implementing Zero Trust requires a strategic approach within IAM policies, roles, and users.

• Architect cloud environments using multiple accounts.

• Segment cloud operations for different organizational groups.

• Implement a Zero Trust approach within IAM policies.

10. Failure to Establish Cloud IR Planning and Operations

Cloud Incident Response (IR) plans are essential for recovery. Tactics to establish a robust IR plan:

• Define cloud data recording and storage.

• Implement a quarantine control process.

• Ensure access for security teams analyzing compromised resources.

For a comprehensive look at the current cloud security landscape, based on large-scale data and real-world attack scenarios, download Unit 42’s Cloud Threat Report, Volume 7: Navigating the Expanding Attack Surface.

Partnering for Cybersecurity Excellence

Addressing these top 10 cloud security risks dramatically improves the security of cloud environments. Annexus Technologies, as a Palo Alto Networks partner for the Caribbean region, collaborates with organizations to fortify their cybersecurity posture. As an I.T. Consultation Services provider, we offer custom tutorials and a free 1-hour consultation session. Partner with us to navigate the complexities of cloud security and build a resilient environment.