Foreign cloud services could see backlash from activist activities

Activists’ use of cloud computing to allow unapproved data to slip past China’s Internet filtration system could put major providers of cloud hosting services — such as Amazon (AMZN.NASDAQ), Microsoft (MSFT.NASDAQ) and Akamai (AKAM.NASDAQ) — in the cross hairs of mainland authorities, who would need to block entire servers of these companies to successfully fend off prohibited content, The Wall Street Journal reported. Verizon Communications (VZ.NYSE) cloud service EdgeCast was blocked in November last year, while other cloud providers have cut off service to activists to avoid getting blocked. Thus far the potential economic consequences of more widespread blockage seems to have stayed authorities’ hands.