Using offsite storage solutions has advantages, but may pose security risks.
How much do you trust public cloud services with your data? While convenient, cloud storage options have come under fire recently for their sub-par security. For example, Dropbox suffered a security breach earlier this month that left many users compromised.According to a CMSWire article, the breach was caused by poor password practices such as using the same password across multiple websites. The issue caused a flood of criticism regarding the public cloud, but Dropbox isn’t taking those criticisms lightly.
Users will no longer have to rely solely on their passwords to protect stored data, as Dropbox is now offering two-factor authentication to improve account security, PCWorld reported. The service functions similarly to Gmail’s authenticator, by sending text messages to the user’s phone.
“Users will first need to upgrade their client to version 1.5.12,” the news source said. “The feature can be turned on through Dropbox’s website on the ‘security’ tab in a person’s account settings. Users can opt to receive the six-digit code sent by SMS to their mobile phone when a new device is used to access their account.”
Programs that support Time-Based One-Time Password protocol can also receive valid codes, according to PCWorld. Although there have been a few issues with slow SMS messages, the overall reception of the layered security practice has been positive. Authenticators are considered effective because of their use of randomly generated security keys. Cybercriminals can utilize malware and phishing scams to steal a static password, but it’s much more difficult to crack a dynamic security key. However, utilizing multiple security practices – such as strong passwords, application control and antivirus software and encryption – is the best way to protect yourself and your data.
Do you use cloud storage services like Dropbox? Does the security upgrade improve your confidence with public cloud providers?
