In recent years, cloud data management tools such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive have become essential tools for businesses and organisations across various industries. It offers free storage, an easy-to-understand interface and flawless sharing options that will make collaboration more efficient. Remote work is also made possible with this software, as long as there is a strong internet connection, files can be accessed from anywhere.

However, there is now news that the makers behind these tools have announced rolling changes to their offerings that have made these tools worse. Some experts express their discontent with cloud data management systems, which is why they caution users to add additional safeguards when using them.

So, what exactly is wrong with Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive? Below is a short analysis of why you should be careful when using these cloud data management tools:

Data Security

The first problem with cloud drives is that they do not provide complete data security. While it allows you to store files online, it only enables synchronisation of these files across all your devices to keep them up-to-date. This means that if you need to look for an older version of the file, you may only be able to recover up to a specific version, depending on your business plan and the cloud drive you selected.

If you share the cloud drive with others, you may also discover that some files are missing, as other users may delete them without notifying you. The files may also be updated without warning, which can affect the other team’s workflow.

Lack of Ransomware Protections

There is also concern that cloud drives lack strong protection against ransomware. If a file is infected with ransomware before it is uploaded to the cloud, it will remain infected with ransomware. The drive will also be compromised the longer it is in the drive and accessed by others.

Aside from this problem, there is also the lack of two-factor authentication (2FA) and options to limit access in some cloud drivers, which puts uploaded files at risk.

Responsibility

Another problem with cloud drive services is the lack of clarity regarding who takes responsibility when something happens to the drive and the files stored in it. While cloud drive owners are generally responsible for the cloud’s security, this does not include protecting each owner’s data. There is also no guarantee that they will back up the files on a secondary server to protect user data or have recovery options available for users to utilise.

Computer Failures

As mentioned above, cloud drives allow users to synchronise files across various devices, ensuring they are up-to-date at all times and can be accessed anywhere. However, this does not mean that it will back up all your computer’s data. If your computer fails, only the files that are synced with your drive will be recoverable. Other files, such as emails and user data, will be lost, as well as other critical data needed to rebuild your computer.

Data Sprawl

Data sprawl is also a problem with cloud drives, as this means that the data in their drives is no longer organised since they no longer know who has access to it and what files should be removed. This can lead to wasted storage space and a higher security risk for all the drive’s users. Cloud drive systems often lack platforms that help users identify what is using up all their storage space.

Pricing

The pricing of cloud drives can cause problems for their users, particularly as storage requirements increase. Scaling is expensive, and storage limits will be in place. Access will also be limited based on the number of users allowed for the plan.

Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive, as well as other cloud storage management tools, will continue to remain key business tools for businesses despite any changes to their services. However, by knowing their limitations and understanding how to maximise their use, you will be able to protect your data while using these tools within your set budget.

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