Data Protection in the Cloud: How Secure Are My Data in a Cloud ERP?

Challenges in Modern ERP Security 

The world of ERP security is rapidly changing, driven by the rapid development of digital and cloud-based technologies. By 2025, according to IDC, over 30 billion devices will be connected, many as part of IIoT corporate networks that continuously feed data into central ERP systems. These systems are critical as they contain a variety of sensitive information and thus potentially attractive targets for cyberattacks. Data protection in the cloud is therefore essential to protect this sensitive data.

Your ERP Data in the Crosshairs of Cybercriminals 

ERP systems often contain highly sensitive data that cybercriminals can monetize, such as by extorting the attacked company or using the stolen data from customers or individuals mentioned in these data for fraud purposes. Due to their central importance and extensive access within the organization, these data are particularly attractive for attacks. 

The Seven Most Common ERP Security Issues and Their Solutions 

• Outdated Software: Outdated systems are vulnerable to attacks. Regular updates and patches are crucial to close security gaps. 
• Authorization Issues: Poorly managed permissions increase the risk of data leaks. State-of-the-art ERP systems offer advanced authentication and access management functions. 
• Insufficient Security Training: Regular and comprehensive training is necessary to inform employees about secure practices and prevent phishing attacks. 
• Lack of Expertise for ERP Security: Cloud-based ERP systems offer integrated security features managed by the provider’s experts, thus relieving internal IT teams.
• Non-compliance with Security and Governance Standards: Modern ERP systems help companies automatically meet compliance requirements. 
• Single-Factor Authentication: Two-factor authentication should be used as standard across all ERP access points to enhance security. 
• Data Export: Modern systems enable strict control and monitoring of sensitive data export. 

Security at the Highest Level 

Large cloud providers like SAP invest heavily in security technologies and protocols. Data encryption, both in transit and at rest, is standard. SAP’s data centers are among the safest in the world, ensuring that physical accesses are strictly controlled and secured by state-of-the-art monitoring systems. 

Outsourcing Security Management – A Viable Solution for SMEs 

For many medium-sized companies, the question arises whether they could even afford the high effort and cost for a secure IT infrastructure themselves. In this context, cloud ERP systems offer an attractive solution as they provide security as an integral part of the service. This not only reduces internal effort but also guarantees security standards that are on the level of large IT companies. The robust security measures of large cloud providers effectively protect against a variety of threats, including extortion, break-ins, and hacker attacks. These capacities are often far beyond what a single company could achieve, especially in the mid-market. 

Conclusion: Security and Efficiency in the Cloud Is Possible 

The decision for a cloud ERP should not be delayed due to security concerns. In fact, it could be one of the safest decisions you can make for your company. With partners like SAP, it is guaranteed that your data is not only secure but that you can focus on what really matters – your business. 

Would you like to learn more about how data protection in the cloud can succeed? Contact us!