Cloud-based data exists physically somewhere, in many cases stored in many places around the country, or the world. Each location has its own set of risks that involve laws and regulations, physical and social issues, plus data security requirements. Most Cloud-data storage providers disclaims any responsibility for the data stored in their devices, it’s wise to keep backup copies on your own machine in the event the storage cloud ceases to continue services due to government investigations, maintenance, or shutting themselves down permanently along with user data. Some of the risks involved with the “Cloud” are ban, your data is stored off of your computer somewhere else, someone can easily go inside it and look through your personal files without you knowing or even stopping them, in addition if the back drive fails, it can lead to exposing confidential or proprietary information finding its way to an open dumpster.

Plus there are a number of legal risks such as uploading “pirated” movies/games/software may be subject to local laws with the data discovery holding you responsible Reducing risks involve keeping personal data on your own machine, do NOT conduct any illegal activity risking your safety and those around you, and when you backup your data to an offline storage provider, know your provider and make sure you read all LEGAL information so you are aware of what can be held against you and what can be safe. Another thing you can do to reduce risk of your personal information leaking out is to encrypt the data and/or the drive making less vulnerable to those who seek to invade personal space.