With cloud storage Now so tightly integrated into mobile and desktop operating systems, we are all syncing more data to and from the cloud than ever before: our photos, videos, documents, passwords, music, and more.
Of course, there are many benefits to having access to all your data anywhere and from any device, but it opens the door for someone else to get your files from a different device as well. Here’s how to prevent that from happening.
1. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
All the standard security tips apply to your cloud accounts, too – choose long, unique passwords that are difficult to guess, and use a password manager. Keep your passwords secret and secure and be wary of any attempts to part with them (in an unexpected email, for example).
You should also enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if available (most popular cloud storage services now support this). Enabling 2FA means that unwanted visitors will not be able to access your cloud storage files, even if they know your username and password; another code from your phone will also be required.
2. Audit your shared files and folders
Cloud storage services are great for sharing files with others, from family members to coworkers, but you can leave your data open for unauthorized access if someone else finds those links, or manages to access your account. a person who has shared files with. Be careful who you share files and folders with, and add passwords and expiration dates to your shares, if these features are available.
It is also a good idea to periodically audit all the shares that are currently active in your account; in the Dropbox web interface, for example, click Shared button to the left. For those shares that need to be kept active, use the options you have within your cloud storage accounts to make these shares read-only, unless the other parties absolutely need to be able to edit files (Google Drive is a service where can you do this)
3. Clean up your ‘deleted’ files
Many cloud storage services run a sort of recycle bin, keeping files deleted for a few days or weeks in case you want to recover them. This is usually very useful and can be an advantage if someone tries to delete your account. With that said, you may want to make sure that certain sensitive files are completely erased and can no longer be recovered.
If you’re deleting something you definitely don’t want to recover, and you definitely don’t want anyone else to find, especially if the file or folder is shared, look for the recovery options the service has and make sure the files are truly gone . For iCloud on the web, for example, click Recently removed link to view and permanently delete deleted files.
Put expiration dates on your links if you can.
Screenshot: David Nield4. Check your connected apps and accounts
Even if hackers can’t access your accounts through the front door, they can still try to access it through a side window – in other words, through another account that’s connected to your cloud storage. While it may be convenient to have connections to your calendar or email apps configured, for example, it also makes your account more vulnerable.
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