As a law firm, cybersecurity is your ethical responsibility and obligation. Your clients depend on you to keep their sensitive information safeguarded, particularly on the web, where business is most often conducted in this day and age. Your relationship with your clients is built on trust. It is imperative that you keep up to date on the rules governing client confidentiality in a world that becomes more virtual every day.
So what steps can you take to keep this data safe from the attacks of cybercriminals?
Encrypt sensitive data. Encryption is the act of encoding data so only those with authorized access can read it. It's like handing a key to the person who is meant to have access and locking everyone else out. If someone unsavory should get their hands on the information, it will appear as meaningless gibberish to them.
For more information on how data encryption works and how to utilize it, check out this informative blog from PreyProject.com.
Set up multi-factor authentication. Multi-factor authentication (or MFA) is an extra layer of security to follow up your username and password. This will send a unique security code directly to you each time you access your account, either by way of an email, text message, or through an app. So even if a perpetrator gets ahold of your password, they will be stopped in their tracks when they do not have access to the mobile device or account that receives the code.
MFA can also come in other forms such as answering a security question or entering a captcha code. Be careful that the answer to your security question is not too obvious or easily guessed!
You can read more about how MFA works and the different types of MFA here on OneLogin.
Keep your passwords strong and updated. Establish unique login credentials that you use nowhere else. If you are using the same password across the board, it will make you more susceptible to data breaches. Make sure your password is a lengthy one with capital letters and symbols throughout. Lastly, change your password periodically to keep it safe and secure.
If you'd like to see examples of what a strong password is, Lifewire has got you covered. If you struggle to remember your long list of passwords, there are apps such as 1Password specifically built to store and safeguard your passwords for you!
Update security software. Ensure your computer systems, online browsers, and mobile devices are all up to date with the latest versions. It would also be in your best interest to install firewalls and antivirus, which will establish barriers between you and unprotected networks, and periodically scan your system to let you know of any concerns.
TechRadar has compiled a list of the best firewalls of 2022 to make shopping around easier on you.
Keep your team in the know. Take steps to educate your firm in security awareness and what to do if there is a security breach. There are options for routine cybersecurity training. This will stress the importance of the issue, improve your staff's situational awareness, and keep their knowledge refreshed and up to date.
Backup your data. This goes for not just client data, but all important information and projects in your life. If your device is hacked, you will want to have that information stored in an alternative location in case you lose or need to delete the data on your compromised device.
This article on Cloudian covers all of the different ways you can back up your data.
Stay vigilant! Be sure to keep up with the latest trends in cyberattacks, phishing, and other scams. Practice caution when handling sensitive information and always be on the lookout for data breaches. If there is a known issue, be sure to inform your team about it in order to avoid compromised accounts and other major problems. Always stay one step ahead and keep the lines of communication open!
It is vital to your clients as well as your practice that you always handle sensitive information with the utmost care. Make sure to keep your computers--and yourself--up to date on all matters relating to cybersecurity!