Singapore Introduces New Multi-Tier Cloud Security Standard

SINGAPORE, Nov 13 (Bernama) -- A new cloud security standard has been launched to provide businesses with greater clarity on the levels of security offered by different cloud service providers (CSPs). Dubbed the Multi-Tier Cloud Security Standard for Singapore (MTCS SS), the new standard is aimed at spurring the adoption of cloud computing across industries. Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) executive deputy chairman Steve Leonard said: "Cloud Computing is a very attractive way for companies of all sizes to consume technology and the foundation for Cloud Computing is security. The MTCS SS increases clarity around security service levels of cloud providers, while also increasing the level of accountability and transparency from these companies." The MTCS SS is the world's first cloud security standard that covers multiple tiers. With the new standard, certified CSPs will be able to spell out the levels of security that they can offer to their users. MTCS SS has a self-disclosure requirement for CSPs covering service-oriented information that is normally included in Service Level Agreements. This covers areas such as data retention, data sovereignty, data portability, liability, availability, business continuity, disaster recovery as well as incident and problem management. Businesses that rely on cloud computing services will also be able to use the MTCS SS to better understand and assess the cloud security they require. -- BERNAMA