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Law firm cybersecurity best practices

Sep. 26, 2023 Cyber Security

Top three most important cybersecurity practices for business

 

Technology has revolutionized the way we work and empowered companies in so many ways. For law firms, we can now simply search records in the computer and pull up case files in seconds. However, have you taken into account the potential dangers linked to storing your company’s and customers’ confidential data on the computer? 

 

The latest American Bar Association cybersecurity report indicates that 27% of law firms reported a security breach in the past year. [1] The vulnerabilities law firms face have been brought into focus by recent security breaches at major companies. Keep reading to discover the three most important cybersecurity best practices for law firms.

 

#1 Create a data security policy

We advise every law firm to establish a data security policy. The goal is to ensure everyone understands their role in protecting sensitive data. Be sure to keep training materials up-to-date and relevant to the latest threats.

 

It is essential to hold a cybersecurity training program for your employees to prevent human error. In this program, employees will be taught password management, phishing awareness, and data protection policies. It is a good idea to test staff members’ knowledge and awareness regularly through simulated phishing attacks. [2]

 

#2 Create a comprehensive data protection plan

Protecting client data is vital to maintaining trust and upholding your reputation. Your clients trust you with their highly sensitive information. We recommend you take all measures to prevent a data breach. 

 

According to the latest Forbes industry study, the “insurance/legal” sector saw 636 weekly attacks in 2022, a 68% increase from 2021. [1] Law firms face an unprecedented level of danger from cyber attacks. Law firms must take proactive measures to safeguard their data from these attacks. 

 

Protect your data against hacking

  • Encryption
  • Multi-factor authentication
  • Access controls
  • Regular security assessments

 

Protect your data against ransomware

  • Regular data backups
  • Testing
  • Network segmentation
  • Up-to-date antivirus software
  • Endpoint detection and response

 

 

Related resources:

Six best cybersecurity practices for your business

 

 

#3 Create a data breach response plan

In the event of a cyber-attack, having an incident response plan will be essential in minimizing the harm caused to your law firm. Your incident response plan is a step-by-step action plan that the incident response team will follow in the event of a cyber attack. 

 

We highly recommend consulting with an IT specialist when developing your incident response protocols. If you do not have an IT department at your firm, consider hiring an information technology partner to manage your account, perform regular IT maintenance, and respond to your IT needs.

 

Here is a handy incident response checklist: 

  • Contain the damage and begin any recovery protocol
  • Connect with a data breach expert
  • Notify your cyber liability insurance provider 
  • Report the incident to law enforcement
  • Ensure to notify all third parties involved
  • Make compliance a top priority 

 

When creating a data breach response plan, law firms should perform a risk evaluation to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities. Once you have identified risks, develop a plan that details precise protocols and duties for each step of the incident response process.

 

Next, you will set up an incident response team with personnel spanning all major departments, such as reception, finance, and HR. A comprehensive training program ensures all personnel understand their roles and responsibilities. You can test your firm’s response readiness by simulating attacks to detect gaps and areas for improvement. [3]

 

 

Related resources:

Why your business needs the best endpoint detection and response solutions

 

 

How we can help

NeverBlue IT offers a wide range of cybersecurity services to help your team learn and implement the most effective strategies for reducing the likelihood of a data breach. Our goal is to keep your law firm safe from any cyber threats by providing comprehensive resources and support.

 

 

Ready to get started?

Contact us today.

 

 

Sources:

1: The Florida Bar | Cyberattacks On Law Firms Are Up Sharply

2: Law Pay | Law Firm Cybersecurity

3: Clio | 2023 Law Firm Data Security Guide

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