Cloud Computing Law [Paperback] [Dec 10, 2013] Millard, Christopher

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 responsible, 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.

Christopher Millard is Professor of Privacy and Information Law at the Centre for Commercial Law Studies, Queen Mary, University of London. He is also a Research Associate at the Oxford Internet Institute and is Of Counsel to the law firm Bristows. He has over 30 years experience in technology law, both in academia and legal practice, and has led the Cloud Legal Project at CCLS since it was established in 2009. He is a Fellow and former Chairman of the Society for Computers & Law and past-Chair of the Technology Law Committee of the International Bar Association. He has published widely in the computer law field and is a founding editor of the International Journal of Law and Information Technology and of International Data Privacy Law (both Oxford University Press).