US National Security Concerns in Retail Cloud Adoption: Mitigating Foreign Cyber Threats
Arjun Shivarudraiah · International Journal of AI BigData Computational and Management Studies · 2023
The increasing adoption of cloud computing in the retail sector has transformed operational efficiencies, enabling businesses to scale and optimize their data management. However, the integration of foreign-controlled cloud infrastructures has introduced significant national security concerns in the U.S. The risks of foreign cyber threats, such as espionage, data breaches, and supply chain vulnerabilities, have become pressing issues, particularly with the growing reliance on international cloud service providers. This paper explores the intersection of U.S. national security and the retail industry's migration to cloud environments, focusing on the need to mitigate foreign cyber threats. We identify the core risks posed by foreign state-sponsored actors, particularly those that could compromise sensitive consumer and business data. Furthermore, the article discusses practical mitigation strategies, including multi-cloud solutions, stronger encryption, and enhanced regulatory frameworks. We also examine the role of U.S. governmental bodies in securing the retail cloud ecosystem and outline best practices for the private sector in responding to emerging cyber threats. Through this analysis, we highlight the critical need for a balanced approach that allows the retail sector to benefit from cloud innovations while safeguarding national security interests