Adoption of cloud technology isn’t slowing despite cyber security fears – but providers must do more to build more confidence among adopters, according to research.
Businesses are pressing ahead with digital transformation plans, an independent report from Advanced found.
The software firm questioned over 500 senior executives in UK organisations about attitudes to using the cloud.
Most organisations are concerned about security (82 per cent) and data protection (68 per cent), but eight out 10 businesses are not put off from adopting the cloud by high-profile cyber attacks such as WannaCry.
Meanwhile, 82 per cent of organisations want to see cloud providers do more to build confidence among those looking to adopt a digital transformation strategy.
Jon Wrennall, CTO at Advanced, says: “It’s encouraging to see businesses are undeterred from using the cloud, which is fast becoming the right choice for many to drive efficiencies, innovate and grow.
“Sadly we are seeing the same concerns around security and data protection reported over and over again.
“It’s right to be concerned about security; it’s time that all of us as cloud services providers take a reality check.
“As an industry and profession, we all need to proactively give clear guidance on security responsibilities and support organisations in being better protected, ensuring devices and applications are properly patched and secured – those writing the software are clearly best placed to provide this.
“With General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) coming into force next year we also have a duty of care to provide clarity on how data is being stored and secured in the cloud.
“There’s still a job to be done in creating trust in the cloud and helping customers use the cloud in the right way for the digital transformation that’s right for them.”
Sue Daley, head of cloud, data, analytics and artificial intelligence at techUK, added: “It is good to see that businesses understand the economic and efficiency benefits of cloud computing, and confidence continues to grow.
“However, it is vital that businesses, and consumers, are better informed around the security of cloud services.”