Security is a relatively low priority for many cloud service providers, according to Security of Cloud Computing Providers, a new study conducted by the Ponemon Institute. Cloud providers and customers also have widely differing views on who’s most responsible for securing sensitive data, the study found.

Less than 30 percent of the 127 U.S. and European vendors surveyed said they considered security one of their “most important responsibilities,” according to the study. In addition, 62 percent of U.S. respondents and 63 percent of European respondents said they were either not confident or not sure that their services adequately protected customer information.

Such findings are surprising, given the well-publicized risks associated with the loss of sensitive data, according to a blog post by Dr. Larry Ponemon, the Institute’s president.

 

Many cloud vendors also don’t believe security is an important factor in how customers choose providers. Just 19 percent of American and 18 percent of European respondents said they considered security to be a competitive advantage. The top reasons customers migrate to a cloud environment include cost reduction, faster deployment time, and improved customer service, according to respondents.

Vendors and users also appear to have different perspectives on who should be most responsible for security in the cloud. Sixty-nine percent of providers believe customers are mainly responsible for security; in contrast, 35 percent of cloud users consider themselves responsible for security, according to an earlier Ponemon study. In addition, just 16 percent of cloud providers, compared to 33 percent of customers, believe security should be a shared responsibility.

Given the risks associated with losing sensitive data, however, “it is only a matter of time” before organizations will “demand enhanced security systems,” according to Dr. Ponemon’s statement.

In the meantime, cloud customers should be aware of their responsibility to asses security risks before placing data in the cloud, he said. They must thoroughly “vet providers and their applications and infrastructure for their ability to safeguard information.” More cloud services providers and customers should also consider sharing responsibility for security, he said.

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Transguard’s Security Solutions is the physical and electronic security systems integration division of the Transguard Group. We boast an international team of specialist engineers and consultants and have built a reputation for excellence in the design and installation of bespoke integrated security solutions. Our clients span government agencies, multinational and large national organisations.

We pride ourselves on our holistic approach to systems design and we place great emphasis on our status as independent integrators. Our focus is on providing total security solutions that enhance our customers’ operations while helping to secure the business effectively.

In addition, we are a leader in the design, supply and installation of CCTV systems. As a result of our independence, we have unrivalled experience with all major systems and equipment, including analogue, digital/analogue hybrids and IP systems.

We are recognised specialists in the design, supply and installation of enterprise access control systems. Using the latest in smart card technology, our installed systems are capable of integrating a variety of functions, including time and attendance, biometrics and logical access.

Transguard’s Security Solutions have expertise in:

CCTV

From single camera to multiple site, multiple camera systems, Transguard’s Security Solutions offers the very latest in digital and network IP camera system technology for a wide range of applications, from schools to extreme industrial environments.

Access Control and Security Management Solutions

From simple four door solutions up to multi site national or international enterprise class access control systems Transguard’s Security Solutions can provide specific solution for each client incorporating the latest biometric and visitor management technologies.

Barriers and Turnstiles

Transguard’s Security Solutions can design and install security barrier systems that control vehicle or pedestrian movement as a stand-alone system or integrated with other systems such as CCTV and Access Control.

Control Room Infrastructures

Turnkey solutions are provided to design, fit out and integrate all services for command and control centres, including video display walls, audio, acoustics and ergonomic technical furniture.

Perimeter Protection

Transguard’s Security Solutions design and install physical security fencing incorporating a full range of perimeter and open ground electronic protection equipment.

Converged IT Solutions

Transguard’s Security Solutions provide the design, installation and maintenance of integrated security systems into a single networked solution.

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