Published Paper Details:

Cloud computing has transformed the global digital ecosystem by offering scalable, cost-effective, and collaborative solutions across industries. Its service models--Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS)--and varied deployment modes have created unprecedented opportunities for innovation and operational agility. However, the decentralised and third-party-dependent nature of cloud systems introduces significant security vulnerabilities. Data breaches, unauthorised access, interoperability gaps, and weaknesses in identity management remain pressing concerns for stakeholders in sectors such as healthcare, finance, education, and government. This paper examines these security challenges through a comprehensive review of literature and insights from practitioners. It argues that the absence of standardised, context-specific frameworks exacerbates risks and undermines the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates theoretical perspectives with empirical observations to identify gaps in existing solutions. The discussion proposes a multi-layered security strategy encompassing advanced encryption, robust identity management, compliance-driven governance, and global interoperability standards. By bridging the divide between technical measures and policy frameworks, this research contributes to building resilient cloud ecosystems capable of mitigating emerging threats while maintaining trust and reliability. The findings hold value for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers seeking sustainable and secure cloud adoption.