Europeans Raise Concerns Over US Cloud Use
Concerns are growing in Europe regarding the reliance on US cloud service providers, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions. Bert Hubert, a Dutch entrepreneur and advisor to the Dutch Electoral Council, expressed worries about the implications of transferring government and business data to US-based clouds. He noted that many European organizations are increasingly dependent on services from companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, raising fears about data sovereignty and privacy. The ongoing political climate and the unpredictability of US policies have intensified these worries, particularly as European entities consider moving to cloud services.
Hubert highlighted that the shift to Microsoft 365 has made it difficult for organizations to avoid cloud storage, as many systems are configured to prioritize cloud solutions. The situation has become more precarious since the Trump administration’s stance on international relations, which has left European governments feeling vulnerable. The recent announcement of Microsoft’s EU Data Boundary, aimed at ensuring data remains within European borders, has not alleviated concerns about the potential for US government access to sensitive information. The fear of being left without support if geopolitical tensions escalate further complicates the decision-making process for European entities.
The reliance on US cloud services has created a scenario where European governments are increasingly dependent on a single provider, raising questions about the implications of such concentration. Hubert pointed out that even if the US maintains cooperative relations with Europe, the risk of a single point of failure remains. The example of the bankruptcy of the Russian-owned Amsterdam Trade Bank illustrates the potential consequences of relying on US cloud services, as Microsoft was unable to provide necessary data access during the bankruptcy proceedings due to sanctions. This situation underscores the importance of developing a more self-sufficient European tech ecosystem.
European governments must consider alternative solutions to mitigate risks associated with US cloud services. While there are examples of successful transitions to open-source software in certain regions, the overall inertia towards Microsoft products presents a significant challenge. Hubert emphasized the need for a strategic approach to technology adoption that prioritizes data sovereignty and privacy. As Europe grapples with the implications of its reliance on US tech giants, a concerted effort towards building a robust European technology infrastructure may be essential for safeguarding sensitive data.
Source: Europe begins to worry about US-controlled clouds
