CYBERSECURITY CHALLENGES IN CLOUD COMPUTING ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way organizations manage data and IT
infrastructure, offering scalability, cost efficiency, and accessibility. However, the widespread
adoption of cloud services introduces significant cybersecurity challenges that threaten data
confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This paper explores the critical cybersecurity
challenges faced in cloud computing environments, focusing on vulnerabilities such as data
breaches, insecure APIs, account hijacking, insider threats, and compliance issues. It further
discusses contemporary mitigation strategies, risk assessment frameworks, and the role of
emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain in enhancing cloud
security. The research highlights ongoing efforts in Pakistan to strengthen cloud cybersecurity
and proposes future directions to safeguard cloud infrastructures.