2. 1. Introduction to Application Security in Cloud Computing
•Definition:
Application security in cloud computing refers to
measures and practices taken to protect applications
and their data in cloud environments from threats and
vulnerabilities.
•Importance:
•Cloud apps handle sensitive data (e.g., personal info,
financial records)
•Security breaches can cause financial loss, data leaks,
reputational damage.
3. 2. Why Application Security is Crucial in the Cloud
•Multi-tenancy:
Cloud environments often serve multiple customers using shared
resources, increasing risks.
•Data exposure:
Applications in the cloud are exposed to internet-based threats.
•Compliance requirements:
Organizations must adhere to laws like GDPR, HIPAA, etc.
•Dynamic environments:
Frequent updates, scaling, and configuration changes introduce
new vulnerabilities.
5. 3. Key Challenges in Cloud Application Security
•Data breaches and leaks
•Insufficient identity and access management
•Misconfigured cloud storage/services
•Insecure APIs and interfaces
•Malware injections and DDoS attacks
•Lack of visibility and control over data
7. 5. Security Principles for Cloud Applications
•Confidentiality: Prevent unauthorized access
to data.
•Integrity: Ensure data is not tampered with.
•Availability: Ensure services remain
accessible.
•Authentication and Authorization: Use MFA,
roles.
•Audit and Monitoring: Logging, alerts,
activity tracking.
8. 6. Common Threats to Cloud Applications
1.SQL Injection
2.Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
3.Man-in-the-middle attacks (MITM)
4.Account hijacking
5.Zero-day vulnerabilities
6.Ransomware and malware
7.Insider threats
8.Denial of Service (DoS/DDoS)
12. Case Studies and Incidents
•Capital One breach (2019):
•Misconfigured firewall, exposed
sensitive data.
•Microsoft Power Apps (2021):
•Misconfigured access settings exposed
38 million records.
•Lessons Learned:
•Regular audits, configuration
management, better IAM practices.
13. Zero Trust Architecture in Cloud
•"Never trust, always verify" principle
•Components:
•Identity verification
•Device health checks
•Continuous monitoring
•Least privilege access
•Benefits:
•Reduces attack surface
•Minimizes lateral movement
15. Future of Application Security in Cloud
•AI-driven security automation
•Quantum-resistant encryption
•More secure DevSecOps pipelines
•Tighter regulations and compliance
•Decentralized identity management (blockchain-
based)
16. Conclusion
•Application security in the cloud is
critical to protecting digital assets.
•It requires a holistic strategy covering
code, data, users, infrastructure, and
governance.
•Organizations must stay updated with
evolving threats and solutions.