Top Threat #7 - Data Disclosure Disasters and How to Dodge Them

Written by CSA’s Top Threats Working Group.

In this blog series, we cover the key security challenges from CSA's Top Threats to Cloud Computing 2024. Drawing from the insights of over 500 experts, we'll discuss the 11 top cybersecurity threats, their business impact, and how to tackle them. Whether you're a professional or a beginner, this series offers a clear guide to the evolving cloud security landscape.

Today’s post covers the #7 top threat: Accidental Data Disclosure.

What is Accidental Data Disclosure?

Accidental data disclosure, often caused by misconfigurations, poses increasing risks each year. Public repositories of sensitive data can be found through free search tools, exposing platforms like Amazon, Azure Blob, GCP Storage, Docker Hub, Elasticsearch, Redis, and GitHub. Despite ongoing awareness, breaches often occur within 24 hours of exposure.

Disclosures have included sensitive details like passports, passwords, medical records, and biometrics, in addition to basic personal information. Many of these incidents stem from preventable oversights. Addressing these risks requires stricter controls and better practices to prevent exposures.

Consequences & Business Impact

Accidental data disclosure is both a risk and a consequence–often caused by employees prioritizing convenience over security, or as a result of breaches. The impact spans multiple areas:

Technical Impact

• Data Exposure: Sensitive data becomes exposed to unauthorized users due to misconfigurations or errors.

Operational Impact

• Business Disruption: Attackers can quickly exploit unsecured storage or containers, disrupting business operations.

Financial Impact

• Non-compliance: Regulations like CCPA and GDPR impose significant fines for data breaches.

Reputational Impact

• Company Reputation: Publicized breaches can damage consumer trust and harm a company’s reputation for security and governance.

Mitigation Strategies

Cloud platforms are vulnerable to user errors and misconfigurations, often requiring process improvements like education, IT audits, and legal planning. Here’s how to reduce risks:

• General Security: Keep storage private, encrypt data, use strong passwords, and enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Major providers (Amazon, Google, Microsoft) offer guides for secure setup.
• IAM Policies: Implement least-privilege access, strictly monitor assignments, avoid Access Controls Lists (ACLs), and move toward Zero Trust architecture.
• Ongoing Audits: Regularly review data buckets and permissions. Use Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) tools for auto-remediation if available.

To learn more about the top threats and explore strategies for mitigating these risks, download the full Top Threats to Cloud Computing 2024 here.