Managing Your Risk While Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is Internet-based computing, whereby shared resources, software, and information are provided to computers and other devices on demand.

Using a third party to host all or parts of your company’s technological presence has become so ubiquitous in the business world that many companies could not function without it. When assessing the risk of doing business in the cloud, the question has moved away from whether or not to take part in it and becomes the question of how cloud computing can best be managed to mitigate risk.

It is fundamental to understand that outsourcing business functions to a third party is not synonymous with outsourcing your risk. The data may reside on a different company’s systems, but the responsibility for that data has not been transferred. Companies must respond to their customers whether or not they are using a cloud service.

One of the best ways to mitigate risk is to treat your cloud provider like any other independent contractor by actively managing the relationship, reviewing contracts (many have hold-harmless clauses that favor the cloud operator), securing indemnity (the provider should have appropriate errors and omissions coverage) and understanding the vendor’s security practices.

Prepare Your Home for Frigid Temperatures

As the weather starts to cool in the autumn months, many homeowners tackle winterizing projects to ensure that their homes are weather-ready for cooler temperatures. The best way to undertake these projects is to start by taking a walk around your home and assessing what needs to get done. Consider inspecting the following areas:

• Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles that need replacing.


• While on the roof, examine your chimney for missing mortar, cracks and structural problems, as damage in your chimney or fireplace can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in your home. Also ensure that your damper is working correctly and has a tight seal. Your chimney cap should be snug as well.


• Remove clogs in your gutter and check for any water damage. Consider consulting a professional for guidance on how to prevent ice dams (water backup in cold temperatures).


• Check your doors and windows for missing weather stripping. Also make sure that door sweeps are not damaged and are aligned properly to block drafty air.


• Cover window-mounted air conditioning units if you are not going to remove them entirely. Fill in the gaps on the sides of the unit with insulation board and caulk. If you have central air, cover the unit loosely.


• Turn off the faucets outside of your home and cover them with a commercial cover or two old socks wrapped tightly around the faucets; seal with duct tape.


• Inspect the foundation for cracks and gaps to prevent animals from entering your home.


• Look at your home’s siding for missing pieces.


• Make sure your exterior light fixtures are working properly and are sealed tightly to the mounting.