The outlook for law firm cybersecurity is concerning. Research from the American Bar Association (ABA) found that over a quarter of surveyed attorneys have experienced a security breach, and the sophistication of these attacks continues to grow. Cybercriminals now operate in organized groups, utilizing advanced tactics to target high-value organizations, such as law firms, for financial gain or access to sensitive information.
This blog will examine why preventative cybersecurity measures are essential for law firms. We’ll explore the current cyber-threat landscape for law firms, how preventative cybersecurity is their first line of defense, and, most importantly, how partnering with a managed IT service provider can fortify a law firm’s defenses.
The digital age has brought countless benefits to the legal industry, but it has also opened the door to significant cybersecurity risks. Law firms are increasingly becoming prime targets for cybercriminals due to the sensitive and valuable data they handle. The statistics are alarming:
Law firms are up against a variety of cyber threats, each with the potential to cause significant damage. Some of the most common include:
Cyberattacks on law firms are not hypothetical scenarios—they are real and happen with increasing frequency. Several high-profile incidents illustrate the severity and sophistication of these attacks.
Between February 28 and March 13, 2023, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe in San Francisco suffered a data breach that affected over 637,000 individuals’ personal and health information. Hackers accessed names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers. The firm did not disclose whether it paid a ransom; however, it agreed to an $8 million settlement.
While the exact methods used by the hackers to evade detection are not specified, it’s common for sophisticated attackers to use various techniques to maintain stealth, such as:
Cravath Swaine & Moore and Weil Gotshal & Manges, two prominent New York-based law firms, were targeted by Chinese nationals in a significant cyber attack aimed at obtaining insider information for financial gain. The attackers breached the email accounts of senior lawyers at both firms, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive client information. Using this stolen information, the hackers engaged in insider trading, earning over $4 million in illicit profits.
This breach was part of a larger hacking campaign that targeted at least seven major international law firms, including Cleary Gottlieb, Mayer Brown, Latham & Watkins, Covington & Burling, and Davis Polk & Wardell.
Two law firms in Manitoba were hit by a ransomware attack known as MAZE, which locked their entire computer systems. The Law Society of Manitoba reported that the ransomware infection likely occurred when someone at the firms clicked on a malicious link or attachment in an email, which was disguised as COVID-19-related information. As a result, the firms lost access to their email systems, word-processing software, and accounting software.
Unable to access client files, emails, and financial information, these firms were forced to negotiate with cybercriminals. According to Chris Morales, head of security analytics at Vectra, MAZE has posted alleged stolen data from victim organizations, including multiple legal professional service providers, on their “Mazenews” site.
When it comes to protecting sensitive client information, law firms cannot afford to be complacent. Implementing strong preventative cybersecurity measures is crucial. Let’s delve into the key elements that make up an effective cybersecurity strategy for law firms.
Preventative cybersecurity is all about being proactive. Instead of waiting for a cyberattack to happen, law firms need to anticipate potential threats and put defenses in place to thwart them. Here are some of the most important measures:
These security measures are not standalone solutions but rather complement each other to provide a layered defense against cyber threats. For instance, while firewalls block unauthorized access, encryption ensures that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable. MFA, on the other hand, ensures that only authorized individuals can access the system, adding an extra layer of protection.
It’s not enough to set up defenses and forget about them. Regular security assessments and audits are essential to ensure that your cybersecurity measures are up-to-date and effective. Think of risk assessments and audits as your cybersecurity health check-ups. They help identify vulnerabilities before they become major issues, such as:
Human error can render even the most advanced cybersecurity systems ineffective. That’s why it’s crucial to train your team.
These are regular simulated attacks to train employees on identifying and avoiding phishing scams. For example, an email arrives in your inbox from what appears to be a trusted client. The subject line reads, “Urgent: Review Contract Amendments.”
The email is well-crafted, using the client’s logo and formal language that mimics their typical communication style. It includes a link to download the “amendments,” which, when clicked, redirects to a malicious website designed to steal login credentials.
The goal of this phishing simulation is to create a realistic scenario that tests employees’ ability to spot phishing attempts. The email’s urgency and professional appearance are designed to pressure recipients into clicking the link without thorough verification.
When employees fall for the simulation, they receive immediate feedback and training on identifying suspicious elements in emails, such as discrepancies in email addresses, unexpected requests for sensitive information, or unfamiliar links.
Ensuring the authenticity of emails is crucial for preventing phishing attacks. This protocol includes several verification steps:
Consider having various learning opportunities at your law firm to keep everyone informed about the latest cyber threats and best practices. These opportunities could range from regular cybersecurity newsletters to online training modules that include quizzes and real-life scenarios to test employees. Managed IT providers can offer and manage these training modules to keep your team up-to-date.
The aim is to create a strong culture of cybersecurity awareness and vigilance, ensuring that employees stay informed and engaged in protecting the firm’s digital assets. Your employees are the first line of defense. By educating them, you empower them to act responsibly and securely.
Partnering with a managed IT services provider can significantly enhance your law firm’s cybersecurity posture. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and resources to the table, offering a proactive approach to safeguarding your firm against cyber threats.
One of the primary benefits of partnering with a managed IT service provider is their ability to offer continuous, proactive monitoring. Law firms handle a vast amount of sensitive data, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals.
Managed IT providers use advanced tools and techniques to detect and respond to threats in real time. This approach identifies and mitigates potential breaches before they can cause damage, including:
One of the greatest benefits of working with a managed IT services provider is the personalized approach they bring. They understand that no two law firms are alike and tailor their services to meet your specific needs. Managed IT services also provide customized security strategies that align with your specific requirements and risk profile.
Here’s a look at some of the customizable options law firms have with a managed service provider.
Managed IT providers start by thoroughly evaluating your firm’s existing cybersecurity posture. They then conduct risk assessments and vulnerability audits to identify gaps and weaknesses unique to your operations. This detailed analysis forms the foundation for a tailored cybersecurity plan that addresses your firm’s specific vulnerabilities.
As your firm grows, your cybersecurity needs will evolve. Managed IT services offer scalable solutions that adjust to match your firm’s size and complexity, ensuring continuous protection. Whether you’re opening new offices, increasing staff, or taking on more clients, you can adjust your cybersecurity measures to match your growth, ensuring continuous protection without interruption.
Managed IT providers offer continuous learning opportunities, such as online training modules and cybersecurity workshops, to keep your team informed about the latest threats and best practices. These programs focus on the specific types of cyber threats your firm is most likely to encounter. For instance, if your firm frequently deals with high-profile clients, training might focus more on spear-phishing and advanced social engineering tactics.
Read Next: How Law Firms Can Benefit From Managed IT Services and Cloud Solutions
Experts predict that cybercrime activity in Canada will increase over the next two years. Law firms must remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity measures to protect themselves from these ever-evolving threats. The stakes are high, and the need for robust, preventative cybersecurity strategies has never been more critical. Don’t wait until a cyberattack disrupts your operations and jeopardizes your clients’ trust.
Partner with Outsource IT to implement strong preventative cybersecurity measures and safeguard your law firm against ever-evolving threats.