Within the legal profession, maintaining confidentiality is paramount. Law firms, in particular, are in the eye of the storm, identified as attractive targets by hackers due to the confidential data and financial information they hold about their clients. Besides, law firms are often perceived as not the most tech-savvy entities, which do not work in their favour.
In these increasingly challenging times, how can a firm best shield itself? It is possible to rely on more statutory and ethical guidance than one might necessarily assume. A recent chat with Dan Erskine, a lawyer and business owner, probed deeper into this issue.
According to Above The Law, Erskine discussed the current regulatory framework in the United States, drawing special attention to the fact that law firms must have a comprehensive understanding of the technology they use, particularly the data security facets of such tools.
When it comes to selecting technology providers, Erskine noted that law firms must ensure they have robust data security programs. This includes a comprehensive review of relevant contracts, especially service level agreements.
Further protective measures recommended involve the implementation of internal data security protocols. This discussion led to the question of the value of cyber insurance – whether it is truly worth the investment.
The information shared by Erskine provide some food for thought and stress the importance of ensuring the security of confidential data within law firms. Regardless of the size or prestige of your law firm, it is worth considering these suggestions and taking the necessary steps to better secure your data.
Additionally, one can peruse more podcasts, commentaries and guides on law firm management at this Practice Management section, designed to keep legal professionals abreast of the latest resources.