Most businesses rely heavily on Microsoft 365, and for good reason. It’s a powerful, flexible platform that includes Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive. But there's one dangerous assumption we see far too often...

"Our data is in the cloud, so it's backed up."

Unfortunately, that’s not the case - and believing it is could cost your business significantly.

What Microsoft Actually Protects

Microsoft 365 does offer some built-in protection, like data replication across data centers and short-term recycling bin recovery. However, these features are designed to support data availability rather than long-term backup and recovery.

According to Microsoft’s own documentation:

“We recommend that you regularly back up your content and data that you store in the Services or store using Third-Party Apps and Services.” (Microsoft SA)

Translation: They are not responsible for your data loss. You are.

‍

Real Risks You Might Not Know You’re Exposed To

Even if you think your files and emails are safe, you may be one click or sync error away from major data loss. Here’s how it can happen:

1. Ransomware Attacks

Cloud storage isn't immune. If ransomware hits a synced device, those encrypted files can sync straight to OneDrive or SharePoint — corrupting everything.

2. App Misconfigurations

Third-party app integrations (like CRMs or file sync tools) can accidentally overwrite or delete data without warning.

3. Malicious Insiders

A disgruntled employee can wipe out critical emails or documents before leaving — and by the time you notice, it’s too late to recover them natively.

4. Accidental Deletion

Employees delete emails or files every day — sometimes by mistake. Once they’re gone from the recycling bin (after 30 days by default), they’re gone for good.

‍

The Data Loss Stats Are Alarming

Still not convinced? Consider these eye-opening statistics:

• 60% of sensitive data in the cloud is stored in Office documents, making platforms like Microsoft 365 a key focus for cybercriminals. (McAfee)

• 75% of data loss is caused by human error, sometimes intentional but usually not. (Invenio)

• Fewer than 25 % of organizations using Microsoft 365 have adopted a dedicated third‑party backup solution. (CloudAlly)

That means over 75% of businesses are one mistake away from permanent data loss.

‍

How Lightspeed Solutions Protects Your Microsoft 365 Data

At Lightspeed Solutions, our experts help you get the most from Microsoft 365 — from selecting the right licensing and managing migrations to providing ongoing support and custom SharePoint solutions. We pair that expertise with robust safeguards to keep your data safe and recoverable. Here’s how we help you lock down your Microsoft 365 environment:

Automated Daily Backups

We deploy third-party backup solutions specifically designed for Microsoft 365. That includes Exchange Online, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams — with full versioning and point-in-time recovery.

Fast, Full Recovery

Whether it’s a single lost email or an entire Teams folder, we can restore exactly what you need — when you need it.

Retention Beyond Microsoft’s Limits

Instead of the 30-day limit, we retain your data for months or even years, depending on your compliance needs.

Security-First Monitoring

We don’t just set it and forget it. Our team monitors your backups and alerts you to anomalies — like unusual deletion patterns — before they become disasters.

Your Data Is Your Business. Don’t Leave It to Chance.

If you’re relying on Microsoft’s built-in tools to protect your business, you’re playing a risky game. Microsoft 365 is powerful — but it’s not bulletproof.

Let Lightspeed Solutions help you close the gaps, protect your data, and sleep better at night knowing your business is covered.