Why is a windows8 logo in that picture?  Cloud computing/storage isn’t bound to windows only.
You can disable clouding/SkyDrive (storage) and some folks don’t even use it need it.
But before we go into detail it would be wise to actually look up and understand and know how the cloud works.

If you choose to store Data on a server that you don’t know- that includes location laws and Eula then its obvious that  you should read up on the topic a bit more?
However if you know the Network, or the server and you can use it to have access to your data from wherever you can expand/extend your computing power instantly without investing intop D-servers-  it’s a definitely a big bonus.
However if you have a company and you store data (important Data) on a unknown cloud be careful since that data can be sold and stored in other country’s with different laws. 
Like every other thing in reality and VR nothing is unbreakable so your data can be safe but has a chance to be stolen n sold.


To the part of Skynet: I wouldn´t be worried about the cloud.
In our modern time there is no big need to steal personal information you only have to check social media + there is NSA.
Cameras everywhere around you, online buying history Banking details and more that are that get stored on a daily basis.
Basically everyone is an open book, phones with GPS could possibly track your location, contacts read out of it, + those of friends could be monitored as well, the amount of money you have gained and spent for things everything even what programs or movies you watch.
So should I be worried about the cloud?

A easy to understand video for cloud/computing

Yay! Thanx for starting off the discussion Rollocollor

Cloud computing is one thing, big data is another. Companies like Google collect (supposedly) anonymous data (likes, dislikes, clicks to various sites) build profiles and sell that data.

This is something else altogether: http://www.tweaktown.com/news/33577/darpa-wants-you-to-build-skynet-offers-2-million-prize/index.html

Yes, but they all SAY alot don´t they... The tech is there and my experience with life in general is -If it can be abused it already Is being abused.

Not worried about it here at all, I don't use any cloud storage and never will.

I think Cloud storage is ok...depending on the TOU (property rights). What one should never use Cloud storage for is personal and financial information. That should be stored locally with a backup in an off premises, fire proof safe.

On a non connected HD in a fireproof safe....Sounds good.... unless it was "Uploaded" first

I use some cloud storage, but never for anything sensitive. Skins, walls, etc. Nothing I am worried about. 

I'm not currently worried about the Cloud because I don't use it... however, it does concern me that some software companies have been gearing towards consumers accessing their apps from the Cloud, and that one day we may be forced into accessing all our software that way.  It would be so much cheaper for Adobe and other major developers to deliver their products this way because it does away with hard copies and brick and mortar points of sale.

And do they pass on those savings to consumers?  Of course not!  There 'll be some reason given as to why they should keep those savings and consumers will continue to pay through the nose for over-inflated software.  Fortunately, there are some software companies [usually the smaller ones] who price their products reasonably, and I generally stick with those anyhow.

You´re all missing the point. 

-I doesen´t matter if you "Use" it or not if the tech is being abused

All your Info might already be in the Cloud as far as tech goes.

Then we're all f**ked already, then.

Sadly, if there is a way to abuse something, some asshole[s] will always find a way to exploit it to the max.

Could be that some abuser[s] came up with the idea of the Cloud so they know everything about everybody.

Just think, no more tax evasion; no more false alibis; no more milkmen sneaking in as hubby steps out; no more secret 'self-pleasuring' while watching internet pr0n... no more hidden Swiss bank accounts... NO MORE 'Flipping the Bird' behind politicians backs.

Like I said, we're likely already copulated; fornicated; shagged; baloney-ponied; horizontally danced; coitalized.... er... f**ked.

Yes, and I agree with you, abuse of the Cloud will lead to all sorts of improprieties, including identity theft; character assassinations; mass fraud; invasions of privacy; back-stabbing; bitch fighting and just about anyother kind of corruption across the board.

I just don't know what I can do about it, other than not using it and hoping millions will follow suit so it become unviable.  Thing is, if I worry about every little thing that might or might not happen to me, I'll have little enjoyment in a life that already is compromised by ill health and other personal issues.

The one thing I do have left is the ability to have a bit of silly fun and laughter, thus my silliness in various threads, and that's something I don't want to lose because I'm stressed about 'Cloud' abuse... people snooping in my Playboy centrefold folder to see what I fancy.  About the only time that would have any impact is if they [whoever that is] can match my fantasies with a real life lass and send her to me pronto.

Well, no one seems worried so that´s good (or bad ?) for you I guess, but my paranoia tells me that it´s not that simple as to just "Not use" or turning "services" off