Data Security and Privacy Protection in Cloud Computing Challenges and Solutions for the Digital Age

Abstract

 As cloud computing continues to reshape digital infrastructure, it has introduced new challenges related to data security and privacy protection. This study examines the significant risks that cloud environments pose to organizations and individuals, drawing lessons from high-profile breaches such as the Capital One Data Breach, the iCloud Celebrity Photo Leak , and the SolarWinds Supply Chain Attack. These incidents highlight vulnerabilities such as misconfigurations, weak authentication, and third-party risks. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of these breaches, identifying common patterns and the technical, legal, and ethical implications of cloud security failures. In response, the paper proposes technical, policy, and user-centric solutions aimed at strengthening cloud security, including improved configuration management, multi-factor authentication, better regulatory frameworks, and user education. This study will help organizations to enhance their resilience against data breaches and ensure more robust privacy protection in the digital age.