May 21, 2009
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News: Cloud Computing Put To The Test
The latest hype in the technology world has expanded to the clouds. Cloud computing and virtualization mystify computer users; however, most are less concerned about what it is and more interested in the speed and depth it provides. Organizations that use the two technologies are concerned about having the ability to provide security, speed, and information to the end user. Along with the speed and accessibility come security concerns for credit card users. The Payment Card Industry Council (PCI) has made cloud computing a major focus in assuring that consumers are safe and secure while using their debit and credit cards on the internet and in stores. The council has developed a task force to investigate the effects on consumers’ security when they expose their credit card information to merchants who relegate the card information to a cloud host.
Cloud computing is experiencing rapid growth because it allows businesses to scale use to match demand as the company’s needs grow or shrink. Additionally, it provides instant power when needed, and saves money because they only pay for the power when they use it. However, like all good things, there are concerns, mainly the potential security issues for credit card users. The PCI is dedicated to protecting consumers’ financial information and is evaluating its current security standards to determine the effect of cloud computing and virtualization. Their aim is to know what, if anything needs to change in the PCI standards in the future to assure that credit card data is not being compromised. The task force will be examining stores, restaurants, hotels, and other users of cloud computing and virtualization and how it applies to the current standards.
The council realizes that cloud computing and virtualization are important technologies and expect their use will continue to grow. The council’s stand is to remain neutral in the use of technology while addressing the potential risks associated with consumers’ credit card data. The task force will be evaluating cloud computing and virtualization to assure they meet all standards and to determine if any upgrade to current standards is warranted. Details of their findings are expected to be released later in the year.