Cloud Computing Law

Cloud computing, whereby software, data processing, data storage and other key IT requirements are delivered as a service via the Internet, is evolving rapidly. However, whilst many organisations are becoming reliant on cloud resources, contracts for cloud services often contain provisions that are inappropriate, unenforceable and/or illegal. Similarly, the application of established data protection concepts to the storage and processing of information in cloud environments can be problematic, with fundamental uncertainties as to what is regulated, who is reponsible, which laws apply, and the circumstances in which law enforcement authorities can obtain access to information.

Covering the key legal and regulatory issues surrounding cloud computing, this work provides an invaluable analysis of this evolving area of law. Topics covered include contracts, data ownership and protection, access to data, competition, and consumer protection as well as an analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of governance models for cloud computing, making this the most coherent and comprehensive study of the issues surrounding cloud computing law.

Professor Christopher Millard is Professor of Privacy and Information Law at Queen Mary University of London, Senior Research Fellow at the Oxford Internet Institute, and Of Counsel to Bristows. He is the author of many articles and book chapters on privacy, technology, Internet and communications law, and General Editor of the International Journal of Law and Information Technology (Oxford University Press). He has previously been Partner and Head of Global Privacy Practice at Linklaters. He was Internet and eCommerce Lawyer of the Year 2008 and 2009 (International Who's Who of Business Lawyers).