Law firms have a lot on their plates to worry about. The most obvious concern is how to stay in business. For example, we recently pointed out the importance of improving intake procedures.

Although it may be easy to dismiss the threat of cybersecurity, don’t. The security of the information handled by your firm really should be a top priority. These best practices can help your firm avoid potential security disasters.

We’ve all heard of the Nigerian 419 email scam(s). These days, law firms are the targets of similar phishing letters; and the new variety aren’t nearly as obvious as the Nigerian ones, either. Large law firms are usually the most common target for security breaches because they typically attract the most monied clients.

Review Third Party Contracts

According to a 2015 Forrester Research Survey of IT security and risk management professionals, organizations are more concerned about third parties inadvertently leaking data than they are about the vendor’s ability to do the job as agreed. This means that any time your company signs a contract with a third party involved, the chances are that somebody is more concerned about potential data breaches than the contract itself.

Secure Your Website – and Your Network

If you’re still one of those companies that uses a free Wi-Fi network that allows guests to use it … let’s just say it’s time to upgrade. All law firms should be using a Secure Sockets Layer protocol that has been “Heartbleed” proofed.

5. Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication has been around a while, but more companies are considering it. In addition to considering it for your firm, you should consider it in your personal life.

Related Resources:

  • Safe and Secure: Cyber Security Practices for Law Firms (CNA Financial)
  • Do I Need Cybersecurity Insurance for My Small Business? (FindLaw’s Free Enterprise)
  • 5 First Steps to Take If Your Business Gets Hacked (FindLaw’s Free Enterprise)

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