Ethical considerations in Cloud Computing

The invention of cloud computing has given rise to several ethical issues. In essence, the cloud computing amounts to three considerations;

• Transfer of control from technology users to third parties servicing the cloud due to outsourcing and offshoring of ICT functionality to the cloud.
• Data storage in multiple physical locations across several servers across the world owned, managed, and administered by different organizations.
• The multiple service interconnection across the cloud. At the different levels, functionality and service are provided by the different providers and connected to provide specific services to end-users.

The mentioned developments play a major role in the following individual ethical issues of cloud computing.

1. Control

The technology entails outsourcing or offshoring of the information and communication tasks to third-party service providers. The users, therefore, place data and information and computations on the cloud where they are stored in computers and hardware that he doesn’t have control. Basically, the users of cloud computing technology relinquish the control of data, computations, and information to third parties. This often results in problems in case anything goes wrong since the user has no direct control of the storage of data and computation. The risks that are associated with cloud computing technology in terms of control include unauthorized access, infrastructure failure, data corruption, unavailability among others. With such risks, it is difficult to identify responsibility for problems in the cloud, and in the absence of substantial evidence, it is difficult to hold one responsible.

Ethical issues with regard to control are mainly caused by the lack of clarity in the IT infrastructural boundary used in cloud computing. With this technology, systems can spread over the boundaries of multiple parties and across the security perimeters that these parties have put in place. The process has been termed as de-parametrization ‘the disappearing of boundaries between systems and organizations which are becoming connected and fragmented and the same time.

This problem not only causes obscurity in organization IT infrastructure borders but also organization accountability and responsibility. This poses a great ethical issue associated with cloud computing technology.

• Problem of many hands

The responsibilities in cloud computing technology are divided between the customer and the provider of the service. Neither of these two parties can accurately address problems arising in cloud computing. This eventually leads to a problem associated with many users or people being responsible for data and computing. This basically occurs when in a complex chain of events or systems, many people will have had a share in an action that leads to undesirable consequences. As such many people will also have had the opportunity to prevent these consequences, and therefore no-one can be held responsible.

In case something undesirable happens in cloud computing, it is difficult to find or hold someone responsible. This is due to the fact that in cloud computing, specific user depends on the system which depends on another system which in turn may depend on another system. Cloud computing service to end-users is built on a framework that is serviced in the cloud by another company. The technology uses Service- oriented-architecture (SOA) where all functionality serviced by applications can be expanded to larger applications that provide services to end-users.

• Accountability

Personal data and information that is stored in the cloud need proper management. Accountability is achieved in the cloud computing technology through the transparency of storage and allocation of responsibility of data and computations in the cloud. Accountability requires detailed records of actions and activities by the users in the cloud, this could create tensions between privacy and accountability. Thus it is important to consider what is being stored and recorded and who the records are availed to. Additionally, as mentioned earlier the de-parametrization not only affects the clarity of the organizations’ IT infrastructure but also its accountability in the cloud.

• Self-determination

Information self-determination refers to the ability or right of an individual to exercise personal control over the collection use and disclosure of their personal data by others. Relinquishing control to the cloud provider raises the question of information self-determination. Due to the unlimited data sharing and storage among different organizations, self-determination is challenged hence raising privacy issues and jeopardizes the confidence and trust in the current information society.

• Ownership

This is an issue of data and information ownership in the cloud and what the cloud providers can do with the data. In addition to the end-user data that is stored in the cloud, the cloud systems also generate their own data and information mainly on users of the system. This information is not accessible to the users but poses a threat to their security and ownership of such vital information. This could result in unexpected and undesirable consequences if accessed by unauthorized personnel. However, the most common ethical issue with regard to ownership is the infringement of copyrights that is often associated with cloud computing technology. By giving customers almost unlimited access to computing power and storage, cloud computing services could offer access to copyrighted material over the internet.

• Privacy

With cloud computing, freedom of control from the end-users is taken away by the cloud service provider. As mentioned earlier, the cloud service provider stores not only the end-user data but also generates data for various purposes. This could include improvement of accountability, improve performance and security. The massive data generated by cloud providers include sensitive information such as user identity, location, and personal information that could be easily accessed by third parties for malicious purposes. This information could get way to unscrupulous agents who could use it for fraud or identity theft. This is a great infringement to the privacy of personal data and information. 

Negative and positive economic effects of cloud computing

The economic implication of cloud computing is experienced both on a large scale and small scale. The impact will be substantial on both households and companies. The individual consumers can be able to access all of their documents and data from any device, as they already do for the email services or social networks. On the other hand, firms can be able to rent computing power (both software and hardware) and storage from a service provider.

The most relevant economic advantage of technology is the general reduction of the fixed costs of entry and production particularly in terms of shifting fixed capital expenditure in information technology into operative costs. This reduces the barriers to entry especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, as the infrastructure is owned by the provider it needs not be purchased by the end-user. This benefit results in the generation of quick scalability and growth of medium and small scale enterprises.

Cloud computing can provide cost savings, it can create multilateral network effects between businesses and can promote entry and innovation in all sectors in which IT costs are restrictive and can drastically be reduced by the adoption of cloud computing. Huge cost savings can be realized especially in large public organizations and institutions such as hospitals and healthcare, education, and government agencies. Additionally, positive externalities are expected particularly energy savings which may significantly contribute to the reduction of total carbon emissions.

Another more practical advantage of technology is the compatibility, it’s easier to achieve and less costly. Most cloud computing technology software are compatible with the dominant software in the market. The software for example glide application programs and software can run on all of the three major desktop computing platforms; Linux, Windows, and Apple (Macintosh). This compatibility reduces costs incurred by users and cloud providers on startup and business automation.

The negative impacts on the economy have been attributed to the anticipated loss of employment opportunities. In the recent past, there have been massive layoffs due to the use of cloud technology. Since computing and storage management can be outsourced, small scale and medium companies and enterprises have opted to lay off staff and outsource the tasks offered by these employees. However, huge companies that generate massive data and information regularly find it more expensive to outsource the storage of the data. A good example is Sony who utilizes cloud computing and generates up to several terabytes of data for individual users would incur more expenses paying another company to maintain and store this data.

Navigating the Cloud: Unpacking the Social and Ethical Issues of Cloud Computing

In an increasingly interconnected world, cloud computing has emerged as a transformative technology that powers the digital age. Offering unparalleled convenience and scalability, it has become an integral part of our personal and professional lives. However, with this technological advancement comes a host of social and ethical concerns that warrant careful examination. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the social and ethical issues surrounding cloud computing, exploring topics such as privacy, security, environmental impact, and the digital divide.

Section 1: Understanding Cloud Computing

1.1 The Basics of Cloud Computing

Before delving into the social and ethical issues, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of cloud computing. Cloud computing involves the delivery of computing services (e.g., storage, processing, and software) over the internet, enabling users to access resources remotely, often on a subscription-based model.

1.2 Ubiquity and Adoption

The ubiquity of cloud computing is undeniable. From individuals storing photos in the cloud to multinational corporations running mission-critical applications, the technology has permeated nearly every facet of modern life.

Section 2: Privacy Concerns in the Cloud

2.1 Data Ownership and Control

One of the foremost social and ethical issues of cloud computing revolves around data privacy. When individuals and organizations entrust their data to cloud service providers, questions arise about who owns and controls that data. This issue can lead to disputes and concerns about unauthorized access.

2.2 Data Breaches and Security

Data breaches represent a significant threat in the cloud era. High-profile incidents involving the exposure of sensitive data have raised concerns about the security measures employed by cloud providers. The consequences of these breaches can be far-reaching, affecting individuals and organizations alike.

2.3 Compliance and Regulation

Navigating the landscape of data privacy regulations becomes increasingly complex in the context of cloud computing. Compliance with laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is essential but challenging to ensure in cloud environments.

Section 3: Environmental Impact of Cloud Computing

3.1 Energy Consumption

Cloud data centers, while efficient in terms of resource utilization, are massive energy consumers. The environmental impact of these centers, particularly their energy consumption and carbon footprint, has raised concerns about sustainability and climate change.

3.2 E-Waste and Hardware Disposal

As cloud infrastructure evolves rapidly, older hardware becomes obsolete. The disposal of electronic waste (e-waste) poses environmental challenges, including the responsible disposal of outdated servers, storage devices, and other hardware components.

Section 4: Digital Divide and Access Inequity

4.1 Access to Cloud Services

While cloud computing offers boundless opportunities, it also highlights disparities in access. Communities and individuals with limited access to high-speed internet and modern computing devices face barriers to enjoying the benefits of the cloud.

4.2 Educational and Economic Disparities

The digital divide extends to education and economic opportunities. Students without access to cloud-based resources may lag behind, and businesses in underserved areas may struggle to compete in a global marketplace.

Section 5: Ethical Implications of Data Handling

5.1 Data Mining and Profiling

Cloud providers often analyze user data to improve their services and target advertisements. The ethical implications of data mining and profiling raise questions about user consent, transparency, and the potential for manipulation.

5.2 Algorithmic Bias

The algorithms used in cloud computing services can exhibit bias, leading to discriminatory outcomes, particularly in areas like hiring, lending, and criminal justice. Addressing these biases is an ongoing ethical challenge.

Section 6: Surveillance and Government Access

6.1 Mass Surveillance

The cloud’s vast data storage capabilities have raised concerns about mass surveillance by governments and law enforcement agencies. The tension between security measures and individual privacy rights is a contentious ethical issue.

6.2 Access to User Data

Government requests for access to user data stored in the cloud can lead to legal and ethical dilemmas. Balancing national security concerns with privacy rights remains a complex issue.

Section 7: Mitigating Social and Ethical Concerns

7.1 Transparency and Accountability

Cloud providers must prioritize transparency in their data handling practices. Users should have a clear understanding of how their data is used and protected. Ethical accountability measures should be in place to hold providers responsible for data breaches and unethical behavior.

7.2 Data Encryption and Security

Robust encryption and security measures are essential for safeguarding user data in the cloud. Ongoing investments in cybersecurity and adherence to best practices can mitigate the risks associated with data breaches.

7.3 Accessible Education and Infrastructure

Efforts to bridge the digital divide must focus on providing accessible education and improving infrastructure in underserved areas. Government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and community-driven projects can help address access inequities.

7.4 Ethical AI and Algorithm Development

Developers and organizations should prioritize ethical considerations when designing algorithms and AI systems. Diversity in tech teams, ongoing ethical training, and audits of AI systems can help identify and rectify biases.

Section 8: The Future of Cloud Computing Ethics

8.1 Evolving Ethical Frameworks

As cloud computing continues to evolve, so too must the ethical frameworks that govern its use. Ethical considerations must adapt to emerging technologies and new challenges.

8.2 Global Collaboration

Addressing the social and ethical issues of cloud computing requires global collaboration. Governments, industry stakeholders, advocacy groups, and individuals must work together to establish standards, regulations, and best practices.

Conclusion

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way we live and work, offering unparalleled convenience and capabilities. However, the social and ethical issues it raises demand our attention and consideration. Balancing the benefits of cloud computing with the preservation of privacy, security, environmental sustainability, and equitable access is an ongoing challenge that requires collaboration, vigilance, and ethical commitment. As technology continues to advance, our ability to address these concerns will play a pivotal role in shaping the ethical landscape of cloud computing.