Cloud Security Breaches in 2024–2025 | What Gartner Reports Reveal
In today’s digital world, businesses are racing to the cloud to streamline operations, cut costs, and stay competitive. But with this shift comes a growing concern: cloud security breaches. As organizations move sensitive data to cloud platforms, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. Gartner, a leading research firm, has been tracking these trends, and their 2024–2025 reports paint a clear picture of the challenges and solutions ahead. This blog dives into what these reports reveal about cloud security breaches, why they’re happening, and how businesses can stay one step ahead. Whether you’re a small business owner or an IT professional, this guide will break it down in simple terms to help you understand the risks and protect your data.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Cloud Security Breaches
- Key Insights from Gartner Reports (2024–2025)
- Common Types of Cloud Security Breaches
- Major Causes of Cloud Security Breaches
- Gartner’s Recommendations for Prevention
- Industry Trends Driving Cloud Security Investments
- Case Studies: Real-World Cloud Breaches in 2024
- Future Outlook for 2025
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Overview of Cloud Security Breaches
Cloud security breaches occur when unauthorized individuals gain access to sensitive data or systems stored in cloud environments. These incidents can lead to data theft, financial losses, and damaged reputations. In 2024, the rise in cloud adoption has made these breaches more frequent, with Gartner estimating that over 70% of companies have moved at least some workloads to the public cloud. Unfortunately, this shift has also made cloud platforms a prime target for cybercriminals. Hackers exploit weaknesses like misconfigured settings, weak passwords, or outdated software to infiltrate systems. Understanding these risks is the first step to protecting your organization.
Key Insights from Gartner Reports (2024–2025)
Gartner’s reports for 2024–2025 highlight the growing importance of cloud security as businesses face an evolving threat landscape. Here are the key takeaways:
- Rising Investments: Global spending on information security is projected to reach $213 billion in 2025, up 10.4% from $193 billion in 2024. Cloud security is the fastest-growing segment, with a 24% increase in 2024 alone.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-9051
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-06-05-the-expanding-enterprise-investment-in-cloud-security
- Cloud-Native Solutions: The market for cloud-native security tools, like Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) and Cloud Workload Protection Platforms (CWPP), is expected to hit $8.7 billion in 2025, up from $6.7 billion in 2024.
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-08-28-gartner-forecasts-global-information-security-spending-to-grow-15-percent-in-2025
- AI-Driven Threats: Cybercriminals are using generative AI to create sophisticated phishing attacks and automate malware, making breaches harder to detect.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-90514
- Skills Shortage: A global lack of cybersecurity talent is pushing companies to invest in automated security solutions and managed services.
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-08-28-gartner-forecasts-global-information-security-spending-to-grow-15-percent-in-2025
These insights show that while threats are growing, so are the tools and strategies to combat them. Businesses must act quickly to stay secure.
Common Types of Cloud Security Breaches
Not all cloud security breaches are the same. Gartner and other sources identify several common types in 2024:
| Breach Type | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing Attacks | Hackers send fake emails or messages to trick users into sharing login credentials or downloading malware. | Stolen credentials, ransomware infections. |
| Misconfigurations | Incorrectly set cloud permissions or unsecured storage buckets expose sensitive data. | Unauthorized data access, data leaks. |
| API Exploits | Hackers exploit poorly secured Application Programming Interfaces to access cloud systems. | System compromise, data theft. |
| Insider Threats | Employees or contractors misuse access to steal or leak data. | Data breaches, reputational damage. |
Phishing remains the most common attack, affecting 69% of organizations in 2024, up from 62% in 2023.
https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
Major Causes of Cloud Security Breaches
Understanding why breaches happen is crucial. Gartner identifies several root causes:
- Human Error: Misconfigurations, such as leaving cloud storage buckets publicly accessible, are a leading cause. In 2024, 12% of breaches were due to configuration errors.
- https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
- Lack of Training: 77% of organizations report that poor training contributes to security issues. Employees often fall for phishing scams due to low awareness.
- https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
- Complex Environments: Multi-cloud setups make it harder to monitor and secure all systems. 51% of organizations struggle with multi-cloud security.
- https://www.sentinelone.com/cybersecurity-101/cloud-security/cloud-security-statistics
- Outdated Tools: Legacy security tools aren’t designed for cloud-native environments, leaving gaps in protection.
These causes highlight the need for better training, modern tools, and simplified security processes.
Gartner’s Recommendations for Prevention
Gartner offers practical steps to reduce the risk of cloud security breaches:
- Adopt Cloud-Native Tools: Use solutions like CASB and CWPP to monitor and protect cloud environments. These tools help detect misconfigurations and threats in real time.
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-08-28-gartner-forecasts-global-information-security-spending-to-grow-15-percent-in-2025
- Implement Zero Trust: Verify every user and device before granting access. By 2026, 10% of large enterprises will have a mature zero-trust program.
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2023-03-28-gartner-unveils-top-8-cybersecurity-predictions-for-2023-2024
- Enhance Training: Regular employee training on phishing and security best practices can reduce human error.
- Use AI for Defense: AI-powered tools can detect and respond to threats faster than traditional methods.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-90514
- Consolidate Tools: Reduce complexity by using fewer, more integrated security tools. Gartner predicts organizations will cut their security tools to under 10 by 2025.
- https://krontech.com/gartners-8-cybersecurity-predictions-for-2023-2025
Industry Trends Driving Cloud Security Investments
Several trends are shaping the cloud security landscape in 2024–2025:
- AI and Automation: Companies are using AI to automate threat detection and response, reducing the burden on small IT teams.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-90514
- Regulatory Pressure: By 2025, 75% of the world’s population will be covered by modern privacy laws, forcing companies to invest in compliance.
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2023-09-28-gartner-forecasts-global-security-and-risk-management-spending-to-grow-14-percent-in-2024
- Hybrid Work: Remote work increases the need for secure cloud access, driving demand for identity and access management (IAM) solutions.
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-03-18-gartner-unveils-top-eight-cybersecurity-predictions-for-2024
- Cloud-Native Growth: The shift to cloud-native applications is boosting investment in tools like Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms (CNAPP).
- https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-06-05-the-expanding-enterprise-investment-in-cloud-security
Case Studies: Real-World Cloud Breaches in 2024
Real-world examples show the impact of cloud breaches:
- Allianz Life (July 2024): A misconfigured cloud database exposed customer data, highlighting the dangers of poor configuration management.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-90514
- Tea App Breach: This women-focused dating app suffered a breach due to stolen credentials, showing the risks of weak access controls.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-90514
These cases underscore the need for robust security practices and regular audits.
Future Outlook for 2025
Gartner predicts that cloud security challenges will intensify in 2025:
- Increased Spending: Cybersecurity spending is expected to reach $240 billion in 2026, with cloud security remaining a top priority.
- https://infotechlead.com/security/global-cybersecurity-spending-to-hit-213-billion-in-2025-driven-by-cloud-shift-and-ai-threats-gartner-90514
- AI Threats: Generative AI will make attacks more sophisticated, requiring advanced defenses.
- Regulatory Growth: Stricter data privacy laws will push companies to adopt comprehensive security programs.
- Talent Gap: The ongoing cybersecurity skills shortage will drive reliance on managed services and automation.
Businesses that act now can build resilience and stay ahead of threats.
Conclusion
Cloud security breaches are a growing concern in 2024–2025, but Gartner’s reports offer a roadmap for protection. From phishing attacks to misconfigurations, the risks are real, but so are the solutions. By adopting cloud-native tools, implementing zero-trust policies, and investing in employee training, businesses can reduce their exposure. The rise of AI-driven threats and stricter regulations means there’s no time to wait. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, prioritizing cloud security is essential to safeguarding your data and reputation. Stay informed, stay proactive, and keep security first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cloud security breach?
A cloud security breach occurs when unauthorized individuals access sensitive data or systems stored in cloud environments, often due to misconfigurations or stolen credentials.
Why are cloud breaches increasing in 2024?
The rise in cloud adoption, complex multi-cloud environments, and sophisticated AI-driven attacks are making breaches more common.
How much are companies spending on cloud security?
Global spending on information security is projected to reach $213 billion in 2025, with cloud security growing by 24% in 2024.
What is phishing, and why is it a big threat?
Phishing involves fake emails or messages tricking users into sharing login details. It’s the most common cloud attack, affecting 69% of organizations in 2024.
https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
What are misconfigurations in cloud security?
Misconfigurations are incorrect settings, like leaving cloud storage publicly accessible, which accounted for 12% of breaches in 2024.
https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
How does AI impact cloud security?
AI helps detect threats faster but is also used by hackers to create advanced phishing campaigns and malware.
What is a zero-trust approach?
Zero trust requires verifying every user and device before granting access, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.
Why is training important for cloud security?
Poor training contributes to 77% of cloud security issues, as employees may fall for scams or mishandle data.
https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
What are cloud-native security tools?
Tools like CASB and CWPP are designed for cloud environments, helping monitor and protect against threats.
How do regulations affect cloud security?
By 2025, 75% of the world’s population will be covered by privacy laws, pushing companies to invest in compliance.
What is a CNAPP?
A Cloud-Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) integrates security features like threat detection and posture management for cloud environments.
Are cloud breaches caused by cloud providers?
Most breaches result from user errors, like misconfigurations, not the cloud provider’s infrastructure.
https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/is-the-cloud-secure
How can small businesses improve cloud security?
Small businesses can use cloud-native tools, train employees, and adopt zero-trust policies to enhance security.
What role does IAM play in cloud security?
Identity and Access Management (IAM) controls who can access cloud systems, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Why are multi-cloud environments risky?
Multi-cloud setups are complex, making it harder to monitor and secure all systems, with 51% of organizations facing challenges.
https://www.sentinelone.com/cybersecurity-101/cloud-security/cloud-security-statistics
How can AI help prevent cloud breaches?
AI can automate threat detection and response, identifying risks faster than manual methods.
What is the impact of a cloud breach?
Breaches can lead to data theft, financial losses, downtime, and reputational damage.
How do insider threats affect cloud security?
Insider threats, where employees misuse access, can lead to data leaks and are a growing concern in cloud environments.
https://sprinto.com/blog/cloud-security-statistics
What is the future of cloud security in 2025?
Spending will rise to $240 billion by 2026, with a focus on AI, automation, and compliance to combat evolving threats.
How can I stay updated on cloud security trends?
Follow Gartner reports, attend webinars, and subscribe to cybersecurity blogs for the latest insights.
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