Cloud computing should be embraced across Europe, but needs an increased focus on security and data protection, according to the European Commission.

Neelie Kroes, vice president for the Digital Agenda, said that putting personal data in the cloud is a leap of faith for most people, and that it is down to regulators and member states to make sure that citizens can trust in the security of such services.

"Cloud computing is more than a technical challenge. By putting our personal data on remote servers we risk losing control over that data. The protection of personal data is a fundamental right in the EU, and this demands several actions," she said.

Kroes explained that Europe needs cloud assurances that apply to all member states, and recommended the development of new laws and codes of practice.

"A cloud without clear and strong data protection is not the sort of cloud we need. Having clear and cloud-friendly rules can help IT companies know exactly what is allowed and what is not," she said.

Existing rules are a grey area, according to Kroes, and self-regulatory initiatives such as industry codes of conduct should be used for international data transfers.

"Data protection is a must-have feature for consumers, individuals and society in general. A cloud without robust data protection is not the sort of cloud we need," she said.

Kroes added that cloud users should be assured that their provider protects data efficiently, and that there are legal frameworks in place to make sure they do so.

The commissioner added that the EC is working on a cloud computing strategy which needs the input of all European Union authorities.

"It takes brave governments and brave thinking to deal with these issues, and the Commission is prepared to be brave too. For this work, we will need your input in the first half of 2011," she said.

The UK government is likely to react favourably, after communications minister Ed Vaizey said earlier this week that the cloud offers real economic benefits to businesses and consumers.

"Cloud computing is a good illustration of the need for international co-operation to ensure that the important developments on the internet that hold great potential are taken forward," he said.

Source: http://www.v3.co.uk/v3/news/2273492/cloud-protection