The cloud

The cloud covers a range of different services including software, tools and hardware — it helps process data, manage and store it.

The cloud lets you access a range of content from apps to contacts, emails, messages, videos, documents, music and photos — from any device, whenever and wherever you like.

Many companies like Amazon, Apple (iCloud), Google (Google Drive) and Dropbox offer various cloud services, including cloud storage. Most Australians regularly use a cloud service, often without even knowing it.

Should I be worried about using cloud storage?

Cloud services can differ widely in the level of technical expertise, security and customer support they offer.

Your level of risk also depends on your personal situation and who may have access to your account details. If you are in, or have left an abusive relationship, there is a risk that the abuser could have access to anything you have stored in the cloud, especially if the abuser set up the account. Read our advice on dealing with online abuse as part of domestic and family violence.

To help reduce your risk, change passwords and disable location settings for all your devices.

Remember that Apple’s Family Sharing, its Windows equivalent and similar apps for Android can involve sharing locations, media and purchases within the family. This can give any member the ability to track, lock or wipe another member’s device. These features could be used by an abusive ex-partner. Manage this by leaving the group, changing passwords or no longer sharing your or your children’s location with other members of the group. For more information see GPS and location-based services, phone and tablets and laptops and computers.

If you are experiencing technology-facilitated abuse, consider hiding or deleting any media, such as photographs, that you no longer wish to share.