Security Concerns in SaaS Clouds Require Renewed Attention Amid Growing Market
The software-as-a-service (SaaS) sector, which forms the largest part of the cloud computing market, has been overlooked in terms of security as the focus has shifted to infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) clouds. SaaS security is critical as these systems operate remotely, with data stored on back-end systems and encrypted by the provider on the customer’s behalf.
SaaS clouds encompass a wide range of services, including backup and recovery systems that are more IaaS-like but delivered using the SaaS approach. This abstracts users further from the components than other cloud computing forms, emphasizing the importance of security in this space.
The main issue with SaaS security is human error, such as misconfigurations that occur when admins grant excessive user access rights or permissions. This can lead to devastating data breaches, often through mishandling of access rights to data integration layers or data access provided by the SaaS vendor via user interfaces and API access.
Other security concerns include employees copying SaaS-hosted data to a USB drive and removing it from the building or SaaS providers’ lack of transparency regarding data breaches involving their employees or unreported incidents.
To address these issues, companies should implement access restrictions and increase education on proper security practices. Additionally, the SaaS security industry must receive more funding, attention, and education to prevent potential repercussions in the future.