Microsoft confirmed that its Business Productivity Online Suite cloud offering, the precursor to the upcoming Office365 Google App killer, experienced a data breach on December 22. The breach of users' Offline Address book data occurred due to a configuration error across data centers in North America, Europe and Asia. "Though relatively minor in scope, Microsoft's breach highlights the kinds of questions businesses and individuals should be asking when making a decision to place critical data in the cloud," says Andrew Martin, technology attorney with Scott & Scott, LLP. "Though governments are taking steps to establish baseline rights for cloud users, at this point, the only way to address privacy and security issues is through the contract with the cloud service provider." For more information, please contact Mr. Martin at 214-999-00880, or amartin@scottandscottllp.com.