A cloud workflow is a business process carried out by online applications and services that pass data or tasks between each other. Instead of one local system doing everything, a workflow may move records through email, document storage, billing tools, identity providers, and third-party automation platforms.
In cyber security, cloud workflows matter because each linked service becomes part of the trust chain. If one account, API key, or contractor session is compromised, an attacker may pivot across connected systems, copy sensitive files, or trigger unauthorized actions. Defenders reduce this risk with least privilege, short-lived sessions, strong multifactor authentication, audit logs, and tight control over integrations. Monitoring who can read, move, or export data is especially important when healthcare or insurance records flow through multiple cloud services.