What does DDoS stand for in the context of cloud security risks?

In the context of cloud security risks, DDoS stands for Distributed Denial of Service. This term refers to a type of cyberattack where multiple compromised systems, often forming a botnet, are used to flood a target server, service, or network with an overwhelming amount of traffic. The goal of such an attack is to cause legitimate users to be unable to access the affected service, effectively denying service to those users.

DDoS attacks can have serious implications for cloud services, as they can lead to downtime, financial losses, and damage to an organization's reputation. Understanding the nature of DDoS attacks is critical for implementing effective security measures in cloud environments. Mitigation strategies may include traffic filtering, rate limiting, and using DDoS protection services offered by cloud providers.