The Internet Jurisdiction Risk of Cloud Computing

Abstract

Businesses currently use cloud-computing services with the uncertainty of jurisdiction, should legal action be initiated. Jurisdiction is the authority of a court to hear and decide a specific legal action. While standards, treaties and case law are developing worldwide, there currently is no simple test to determine jurisdiction for internet activities in the United States (US) or internationally, necessitating businesses to take the initiative to address cloud computing jurisdiction risk. Based upon our analysis of the applicable legal theories, we present recommended approaches for businesses to address cloud computing risks.

Keywords:

• cloud computing
• internet jurisdiction
• internet regulation
• internet and litigation
• jurisdiction risk