Google and Cloud Security
October 17, 2009
Google has a pretty good track record regarding its own security. The system is tough to hack. I know of a handful of events where outsiders have been able to finagle Google’s safeguards to see directory listings. My own tests of Gmail from public terminals revealed some oddities when the service first became available. Since those early days, we have found the Google’s engineers have done a good job. When it comes to Google’s approach to some products and services, security strikes the ArnoldIT.com engineers as a work in progress. The Google Search Appliance has, with each version upgrade, added security features. Some work remains to be done, but the company is moving forward.
I read with interest the story “Google Using ‘Double Talk’ on Cloud Security, Says L.A. Consumer Group.” If this line of inquiry gains momentum, security could become another problem that Google will have to address. In the last six months, Google has found itself in the spotlight on such contentious issues as copyright and Board of Director interlocks with Apple for instance. Although the Apple issue has been resolved, now government regulators are asking questions about some of Google’s telephony-related products and services. More problems Google does not need in my view.
The guts of the Network World article was, in my opinion:
The letter, by Consumer Watchdog advocate John Simpson, faulted Google for “blandly assuring” customers about the security of its cloud-based services while at the same time warning of multiple security risks in federally required 10-Q financial statements. “Google says one thing when trying to sell its products, but something else in federally required filings aimed at shareholders,” Simpson said in the letter.
The issue may not be of security itself. The issue may boil down to the potential for conflicting messages. These can be confusing and act like catnip when legal panthers prowl.
Stephen Arnold, October 17, 2009
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