Is Cloud Computing Right for Me? A Skeptic's Guide

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concerns and considerations regarding the adoption of cloud computing, particularly focusing on data security, privacy, and personal control over information. Participants explore both the advantages and drawbacks of using cloud services in various contexts, including personal data management and professional research.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses hesitation about cloud computing due to a desire for complete control over personal data, questioning if this skepticism is unwarranted.
  • Another participant points out that using web-based email services implies some level of engagement with cloud technology, suggesting that many users are already utilizing it without realizing.
  • A participant emphasizes the separation of sensitive information, arguing that their financial data and research are not stored in web-based email, thus providing a layer of security against potential hacks.
  • Concerns are raised regarding recent data breaches and privacy issues associated with major corporations, leading to distrust in storing data online.
  • Another participant challenges the assumption that financial data is safe simply because it is not stored in email, suggesting that users may not fully understand the risks involved.
  • A suggestion is made that using services like Dropbox could change perceptions about cloud computing, implying that practical experience may alter skepticism.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a range of opinions, with some expressing strong skepticism about cloud computing due to security concerns, while others suggest that the convenience and functionality of cloud services may outweigh these concerns. The discussion remains unresolved, with no consensus on the appropriateness of cloud computing for personal use.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight various assumptions regarding data security, the nature of cloud services, and personal data management practices. There are unresolved questions about the extent of data safety and the implications of using cloud services for sensitive information.

Geezer
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http://www.physicspost.com/articles.php?articleId=245"

I'm really hesitant about jumping on the cloud computing bandwagon. There's something about it that makes me uneasy. Am I being a curmudgeon for wanting to have complete control of my data?

FYI: We back up our data twice each day onto external RAID ("redundant array of independent disks" or something to that effect) hard drives.
 
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Computer science news on Phys.org
Do you use any web-based e-mail service? If you do, you're already there.
 
But my research, financial information, etc., aren't on my web-based email, so if my email gets hacked, my financial information is still safe, and my research (data files, etc.) remains inaccessible. I've never once accessed my checking account via my iPhone; if someone steals my phone, they might be able to check my email, but they're not going to be able to get any other personal information out of it (I'm not dumb enough to store important passwords or other login information on my phone).

I like keeping my devices (and their corresponding information) separate.
 
I like the idea of cloud computing for convenience and for outsourcing computation however with recent corporate data atrocities like the Sony hacking cases or facebook's awful privacy policies I wouldn't trust placing all my data online.
 
Geezer said:
But my research, financial information, etc., aren't on my web-based email, so if my email gets hacked, my financial information is still safe, and my research (data files, etc.) remains inaccessible.

You have no way of knowing that your financial data is safe. Just because there's nothing in your e-mail (and in all actuality your financial data is stored on your e-mail server somewhere if you ever used it for banking), you're still at the http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304778304576375911873193624.html".

I like keeping my devices (and their corresponding information) separate.
You're probably not as good at this as you think. Most people aren't.
 
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Use dropbox and your opinion will change too fast.
 

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