Using the cloud is something that is part of our daily lives. We can use many platforms, such as Google Drive, OneDrive or Dropbox. However, we may have certain security problems and risks if we do not take some measures. One of the problems is leaving files hosted on a platform for too long. We are going to tell you what can happen if you do not take this into account.
The objective is that you do not run any risk that could put your privacy and security at risk, in addition to the loss of files. It is very important that you always have control of the documents and files that you host in the cloud, so you should not make mistakes when using it.
Host files for a long time in the cloud
Perhaps due to forgetfulness, perhaps due to over-reliance on a platform or simply not wasting time, it is not unusual for us to have documents uploaded to a cloud storage platform for a long time. We leave it there, time passes and we are not aware of what risks we may have.
Security issues
The first thing that can happen is that you suffer a security problem. For example, you could forget some documents that you shared with someone a long time ago. If that person’s account has been hacked, they could see the content that you have shared in the cloud and you have not realized to remove permissions.
There could also be a vulnerability that affects that platform where you host content. Maybe that service has a bug that exposes your files and someone can access it. If you don’t usually use that platform, you may not be aware of the problem or have not made necessary changes.
Lose files
Another risk is losing files. This can happen if you use a platform that stops providing services. Maybe you have hosted content for a long time, you have forgotten about it and when you want to enter, you realize that that service no longer exists and, therefore, you have lost everything you had saved.
Normally, when this happens they will notify you in advance. But of course, if you don’t usually enter the platform, it is possible that you have not heard about changes that you should make and you could lose that content that you have had there for a long time.
Changes in service
There could also be changes to that service you use. This can happen for different reasons. Maybe the platform changes the conditions, has less free storage, requires you to make certain adjustments, etc. The more time passes, the more likely it is that there will be some kind of change.
All these changes that may appear could be positive or negative. Sometimes, there are improvements that you will be able to take advantage of. However, if you touch any negative changes, you could have problems with the files you have hosted on that cloud platform.
You forget to create backup copies
One more risk of having files hosted in the cloud for a long time is that you will forget to create backup copies. You do not take into account the importance of creating copies from time to time, adding new files that you may have created over time, and in case something arises, you will have problems.
For example, you could be the victim of a ransomware attack. You have files hosted in the cloud for a long time, but you have not updated that folder and, therefore, you do not have more recent documents that could be vital for your daily life.
In short, although using the cloud is very interesting, you must take into account the importance of reviewing what you host. Don’t leave files in the cloud for too long without paying attention to them, as you could lose them, have security problems, and other risks.
