CLOUD COMPUTING AND DATA PRIVACY: NAVIGATING THE LEGAL, ETHICAL, AND TECHNICAL DILEMMAS IN SOUTH ASIA

Abstract

Cloud computing has transformed the global digital landscape by offering scalable, on-demand, and cost-effective computational resources. In South Asia, its adoption has accelerated across government, healthcare, education, and corporate sectors. However, this rapid integration raises complex challenges related to data privacy, sovereignty, and security. This article examines the multifaceted dilemmas surrounding cloud computing in South Asia by analyzing legal frameworks, ethical concerns, and technical vulnerabilities. While countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have embraced cloud services for digital transformation, inconsistent data protection laws, inadequate enforcement mechanisms, and gaps in public awareness expose sensitive data to misuse. The ethical dimension, particularly regarding consent, surveillance, and digital inequality, further complicates the scenario. On the technical front, issues such as weak encryption standards, jurisdictional ambiguities, and dependence on foreign cloud providers present significant risks. Using a multidisciplinary approach, this study investigates the interplay between law, ethics, and technology, highlighting regional disparities and offering recommendations for developing robust governance mechanisms. Through comparative analysis, graphical representation of adoption rates, legal frameworks, and breaches, the article underscores the urgent need for harmonized policies, regional cooperation, and investment in indigenous cloud infrastructures. Ultimately, it argues that balancing innovation with privacy protection is critical for South Asia to achieve secure, sustainable, and ethical cloud adoption.