Use of Cloud Applications and Systems in the Biotech Sector: Risks and Protection

The current biotech sector relies on interconnected digital environments, and much of the research cycle depends on applications deployed in the cloud.

These applications store highly valuable and critical information, such as scientific research, trials, formulas, and data related to clients, collaborators, and partners. For this reason, having a solid protection strategy is essential to prevent data leaks and information theft.

When this technological foundation is not properly secured, the risk moves from being technical to strategic.

The cloud allows projects to scale without large in-house infrastructures, integrate global teams, and process massive volumes of data within hours. This has reduced research timelines, resulting in greater operational efficiency.

However, this same distributed infrastructure breaks the traditional security model. Data is no longer in a single controlled environment and instead flows between applications, providers, and remote users, which requires a much more advanced protection model.

Risks from Cloud Use in Biotech

Loss of Valuable Information

In the biotech industry, a security breach doesn’t just affect personal data: the leak of genetic sequences, molecular designs, or formulas under development can result in a complete loss of strategic advantage.

If a competitor obtains this information prematurely or the confidentiality required for a patent is compromised, both competitiveness and research viability are directly impacted.

Uncontrolled Access in Collaborative Environments

Universities, CROs, technology partners, and international teams need access to shared platforms. If identities and permissions are not properly managed, active accounts can become open doors.

Failing to regularly review who has access increases the risk of critical information being accidentally or maliciously leaked.

Dependence on External SaaS Applications

Activities such as molecular modeling, biological data analysis, or regulatory document management increasingly rely on external providers. If the security of these providers and contractual agreements is not reviewed, important data may reside in environments outside the company’s control.

Silent Information Exfiltration

Many attacks do not aim to disrupt operations but rather to extract information gradually and discreetly. Without advanced monitoring of access, traffic, and anomalous behavior, these leaks can persist for months before detection, causing strategic losses and compromising research without the organization noticing.

Tips for Protecting Cloud Applications in Biotech

Protecting critical information in the cloud requires technical, organizational, and oversight measures that ensure data and intellectual property security without slowing innovation.

Zero Trust Architecture for Scientific Environments

Every access must be continuously verified, regardless of origin. Multi-factor authentication, project-based segmentation, and device validation reduce the risk of unauthorized access and limit exposure of critical data.

Advanced Identity and Privilege Management

Applying the principle of least privilege, removing obsolete access, and periodically reviewing permissions ensures that only authorized personnel handle sensitive information. In the biotech sector, this protects strategic assets and prevents poorly managed accounts from becoming security breaches.

Encryption and Access Control

Encryption in transit and at rest is mandatory, but there must also be real control over who can decrypt the information. Separating environments and auditing access usage ensures critical data remains protected even in the event of partial compromise of the cloud infrastructure.

Continuous Monitoring and Anomaly Detection

Monitoring access, data transfers, and user behavior allows identification of leaks or exfiltration attempts before they escalate. Real-time visibility turns security into an active, not reactive, process.

Cloud Continuity and Recovery Plan

Maintaining independent backups, conducting periodic restoration tests, and having clear incident procedures ensures that research and regulatory processes continue even in the event of attacks or provider failures.

At ESED, we offer specialized cybersecurity protection for the biotech sector. Our solutions, with 24/7 threat monitoring and automatic detection, provide comprehensive system protection 365 days a year. We also operate with a fixed monthly fee model tailored to each company’s needs: pay only for what you need. We create a customized cybersecurity strategy for each organization, with an optional IT services module. Ensure your research and critical data are always protected by specialized professionals.