Cloud migration is no longer a question of if—it’s a matter of when. But the mere mention of it can cause IT security leaders to conjure up images of data breaches, compliance nightmares and loss of access control. As businesses aggressively continue to harness the scalability, flexibility and cost-effectiveness of the cloud, the pressure on every application to make the leap mounts. But here’s the controversial truth: Most security fears about the cloud are, by now, completely unfounded.

Persistent waves of misconceptions continue to sow doubt, holding back migrations and leaving applications unnecessarily stuck in outdated infrastructure. So how do you separate fact from fiction in the cloud security debate?

On Sept. 24, during our DevSecOps Virtual Summit, we addressed these concerns in the session “Dispelling Cloud Security Myths in Migration.” Let’s take a deeper dive into some of the most common myths around cloud security—and, more importantly, what you can do to ensure secure, seamless transitions to the cloud.

The Top Cloud Security Myths Keeping You Up at Night

In our session, one thing became crystal clear: We’ve been looking at cloud security all wrong. When it comes to cloud migration, security is often cited as the biggest barrier, but many of the fears around cloud security are rooted in outdated ideas.

Myth 1: The Cloud is Less Secure than On-Premises Solutions

For years, we’ve clung to the notion that our on-premises systems are inherently more secure than the cloud. This is one of the biggest misconceptions organizations face. The idea that data is inherently safer when kept on physical servers within an organization’s walls is outdated. In reality, cloud providers invest billions in their security infrastructure, and many cloud services are equipped with more advanced security measures than most on-premises environments could ever match.

This doesn’t mean that migrating to the cloud automatically makes your data secure. The essential difference here is that security in the cloud is a shared responsibility. Cloud providers offer a secure foundation, but it’s up to your organization to build on that foundation with strong policies around access, data protection and compliance.

Myth 2: Once You’re in the Cloud, You’re Immune to Cyberattacks

The cloud can be more secure, but it isn’t invincible. A common belief is that once your systems and data are in the cloud, you’re automatically protected from threats. But no system—cloud-based or otherwise—is immune to cyberattacks. What matters is how prepared you are to respond to those threats.

Cloud security requires continuous monitoring and updating. A “set it and forget it” mindset won’t work in the cloud. Proactively managing your security posture by leveraging cloud-native security tools, multi-factor authentication and encryption is essential to staying ahead of evolving threats.

Myth 3: Cloud Migration is Complicated, Adding Security Risks

Yes, migrations are complex. Also, migrations (of any kind) involve risk. However, both the complexity and the risks of cloud migrations can be managed. Too often, organizations stall their migration plans due to concerns over data loss or exposure during the transition.

Cloud migrations don’t have to be a particularly intense security risk. A comprehensive migration strategy addresses potential risks before they become real problems. Tools that automate security checks throughout the migration process can ensure that you’re not leaving vulnerabilities open as you move data and systems to the cloud while helping manage the migration’s complexity.

The Right Approach to Cloud Migration: Strategy and Security

Now that we’ve cleared up some of the misconceptions, what does a secure cloud migration really look like? The success of your cloud migration relies on building a clear roadmap that takes both your business needs and security concerns into account. Here are three steps to ensure a smooth and secure journey:

1. Start with a Security-First Mindset

Before you begin your migration, assess your current security posture. Identify where your vulnerabilities lie and make sure your security policies are up to date. Remember, migration isn’t just about moving data, it’s about moving data safely.

2. Leverage Cloud-Native Security Tools

One of the biggest advantages of the cloud is access to cloud-native security tools. These tools are designed specifically for cloud environments and provide automated monitoring, data encryption and compliance tracking. OpenText’s DevOps Aviator, for instance, integrates seamlessly with cloud platforms, offering continuous security checks throughout the migration process.

3. Collaborate Across Teams

Cloud migration isn’t just an IT task—it involves everyone, from security to development teams. Open lines of communication are critical to ensuring that security measures are integrated at every stage of the migration and that everyone is aligned on how to respond to any issues that arise during or after the transition.

What’s Next? Watch the Full Session Recording

Migrating to the cloud doesn’t have to be an intimidating process, but it does require the right approach and a solid understanding of what’s true—and what’s not—when it comes to cloud security.

Don’t let cloud security myths hold back your organization. The benefits of the cloud are too significant to ignore. By taking a security-first approach and leveraging the right tools, your organization can confidently migrate to the cloud and reap the rewards.

If you’re ready to separate fact from fiction in your cloud migration journey, check out the DevSecOps Summit recording and take the first step toward a more secure, efficient  and innovative future.

Watch the full session recording here and learn how to ensure your cloud migration is secure and seamless.