Understanding the Risks of Popular Cloud Storage
Think your files are secure on Big Tech cloud platforms? Think again.
From data breaches to government surveillance and hidden file scanning, your privacy is always at risk.
Here’s why mainstream cloud storage isn’t as safe as you’re led to believe — and what you can do about it.
Data Breaches are a Constant Threat 🎯
The biggest and most obvious risk is a data breach. These major tech companies are massive targets for hackers. Because they store data from billions of users, a successful attack can be a goldmine.
- Credential Stuffing: If you reuse your password and it gets leaked from another, less secure website, hackers can use it to access your cloud storage.
- Phishing Attacks: Cleverly disguised emails can trick you into giving up your login details, granting attackers full access to your files.
- Direct Attacks on Servers: While less common, sophisticated attackers can target the company’s servers directly. A single vulnerability could expose millions of users’ data.
Notable Incidents:
Your Privacy Isn’t Guaranteed (Hello, Government) 🕵️
These companies are legally obligated to comply with government requests for data. Based in the United States, they are subject to laws like the CLOUD Act, which allows U.S. law enforcement to compel them to provide requested data stored on their servers, regardless of location.
This means your personal files could be handed over without your knowledge. For example, in India, authorities can seek access to data under laws such as the Information Technology Act, 2000 and related rules that empower government agencies to intercept, monitor, or request access to digital information for security and investigative purposes. For journalists, activists, or anyone concerned about government overreach, this is a serious privacy risk.
The “We Can See Your Files” Problem 🔑
This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of cloud security. While these services encrypt your data, they hold the encryption keys.
Think of it like a storage locker company keeping a copy of your key. They promise not to use it, but they could.
File Scanning: Files are scanned for illegal content, copyright violations, and malware. They may also be analyzed for features like photo recognition or targeted ads. For example, Google Drive scans uploaded files to detect malware and to enhance search and photo categorization.
Legal Access: Holding the key lets them comply with government orders. Apple’s iCloud backups have been shared with authorities in investigations.
Insider Threats: Rogue employees could potentially access data, as seen in past cases where employees at large tech firms misused internal access.
Your data is encrypted from outsiders, but not from the service provider.
A well-known example is Apple’s controversial plan in 2021 to scan iCloud photos for child abuse material using on-device algorithms. While aimed at protecting children, it raised alarms among privacy advocates who feared it could set a precedent for broader surveillance and weaken the principle of end-to-end encryption.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
It’s not all doom and gloom. You can keep the convenience of cloud storage while boosting privacy and security:
1. Practice Good Digital Hygiene
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Protects against credential stuffing. Use a password manager.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds another layer of security even if your password is stolen.
2. Encrypt Before You Sync (For Public Clouds)
If you must use Google Drive or Dropbox, encrypt files before uploading:
Use zero-knowledge encryption tools like Cryptomator or Boxcryptor.
These create an encrypted “vault” on your device. Cloud providers only see scrambled data, and only you hold the key.
3. Build Your Own Cloud (The Ultimate Solution)
The most effective solution is to remove third-party companies from the equation:
Use a NAS (Network Attached Storage): A dedicated storage device connected to your personal network with full access control.
Opt for a Private Cloud Device like Baadal: Baadal is a personal cloud device that gives you easy, anywhere-access while ensuring:
No Third-Party Access: Data stays on your device.
Protection from Public Breaches: Hackers targeting big tech can’t reach your files.
Complete Privacy: No data scanning, no government backdoors.
Baadal: A Plug-and-Play Private Cloud Device
Baadal is a private cloud storage device that puts privacy and simplicity first. It ships with dual-SSD RAID-1 for peace of mind, full-disk encryption, and a smooth setup that takes just minutes. Use the myBaadal apps on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux for auto photo backup, cross-device sync, and secure sharing links. On your home/office network, Baadal delivers LAN-speed transfers; away from home, it provides safe remote access so you can work from anywhere.