When it comes to a business as confidential as a law firm, cybersecurity should be a top priority. There are too many cyber risks involved to leave your information up to chance. In the last year, there has been an increase in cyberattacks on law firms, and in a recent survey, ABA reported 25% of law firms had been breached.
This targeting is largely due to common weaknesses in law firm cybersecurity that are often overlooked:
- Common confidential communication is being handled via email.
- Law firms use outdated systems containing sensitive data.
- Firms not prioritizing or seeing the need for investing in cybersecurity.
Once these vulnerabilities are addressed properly, you’ll be well on your way to a safer law firm.
- Use of Dated Technology
Many companies believe that keeping the same technology they’ve had for 10+ years saves them more than investing in a new system. However, avoiding that purchase ends up being costly in the long run – especially with the lurking cyber threats prevalent today.
Dated technology leaves your law firm’s cybersecurity open to being hacked or vulnerable to attacks by malware. This can lead to a confidential client or firm information being stolen, or worse – leaked onto the internet.
- Lack of Employee Training
It’s not enough for one person to understand cyber threats and how to prevent them, anyone who has access to your system must be informed so there are no loose ends. This includes not just law firm partners, but support staff and any other individuals who have access to law firm information.
Proper training for all law firm employees is necessary to eliminate commonly made mistakes:
- Emailing confidential information
- Downloading unknown files
- Creating weak passwords
Providing education to your employees and partners will ensure your law firm’s cybersecurity stays protected.
- Poor Password Protection
Before you can teach your employees about this commonly made mistake, you must first lead by example. This includes creating strong passwords, using different passwords for each account, and regularly updating those passwords.
It can be tempting to use the same password for multiple accounts or simple passwords that are easy to remember, but this leaves your law firm cybersecurity open to being hacked. Updating your passwords frequently can be made easy by setting up reminders – just remember, this small step is vital in keeping your information safe and secure.
- Regularly Update Your Software
Another step you can take to avoid cyber threats is regularly updating your software. Updates often include patches for security weaknesses, meaning that not updating leaves your law firm unprotected.
Many law firms also use cloud storage for their information so it’s crucial that this software is constantly updated with the latest security measures. Talk to the trusted advisors within your IT department about how a software tool like Clio can help you manage your billing and client data securely.
- Investing in a Cybersecurity Service
Cybersecurity threats can have a huge impact on law firms – not just financially, but reputationally as well. Your reputation is one of the most important aspects of attracting and retaining clients.
When law firm cybersecurity is threatened and information is leaked or stolen, it can ruin your law firm’s credibility and trust with clients. In some cases, law firms have lost clients and even faced lawsuits due to information being compromised.
Hiring and investing in a cybersecurity service through a managed service provider is a great way to prevent dealing with cyber attacks or data breaches. They have the expertise necessary to keep your law firm protected moving forward.
- Implement MFA
MFA stands for multi-factor authentication and it has become an increasingly popular way to protect people’s accounts. This is especially needed in law firms as they handle sensitive and confidential information. That one extra step of security can go a long way. Multi-factor authentication requires a second form of verification beyond just a password to access law firm accounts – often through a code sent to your phone or using biometrics.
This added layer of protection ensures that even if passwords are compromised, law firm information will still remain secure.
- Invest In Cybersecurity Insurance
Although it’s important to take steps to prevent cyber attacks and breaches, it’s also vital to have a plan in place in the event of an attack. Cybersecurity insurance can help cover costs associated with a data breach, including notifying clients, credit monitoring, and legal fees.
Without cybersecurity insurance, law firms could face financial ruin in the event of a cyber attack. Don’t leave your law firm at risk – invest in cybersecurity insurance to have that added peace of mind and protection.
Strengthen Your Law Firm Cybersecurity with Stasmayer
Here at Stasmayer, we believe your reputation matters. Investing in a cybersecurity service can ensure your information is in the hands of experts. Oftentimes, handling this serious threat yourself without the proper information and training can be overwhelming and might lead to mistakes. Our team can provide law firms with the necessary tools and education to keep information safe.
Don’t let your law firm’s reputation be at risk – take action now to boost your cybersecurity. Protecting against cyber threats is crucial in today’s technological world, and it begins with you. Partner with us to keep your reputation intact and your cybersecurity safe.