Today, cybersecurity is a large problem for small to midsize businesses- particularly law firms. Securing IT speaker, David Myers, presented to Amata members Cybersecurity for Law Practice. Although, it may be easy to over look cybersecurity threats, it is important to know the 5 Myths, Threats, and Things you can do for your law practice.

5 Myths

• I’m Not a Target: No matter what size your business is never doubt that your business is immune because your data may be valuable.
• I’ve Got Antivirus: I’m Good: An Antivirus alone is not enough- you need a layered defense form which includes an antivirus, antimalware, spam filtering, gateway antivirus, backup solution, and etc.
• External Hackers are my Primary Hackers: Incorrect, your hackers can be anywhere including the office you work in.
• Cybersecurity is an IT Issue: Incorrect, this is a business issue that can not be pushed off to the IT person.
• I’m a Lawyer: You have to think of yourself as a business owner serving your clients. You possess valuable information and hold information making you likely to be a target.

5 Threats

• Ransomware: A piece of malware that locks your data until you pay a ransom. Then your data will be unlocked; however, it is not guaranteed you will get your data back.
• Phishing: A fraudulent practice to obtain personal information. Internet of Things Threats: The “other” technology that may seem small but a group of malicious hackers can use that to attack you without knowing.
• Your Users: Be sure your users understand the risk when storing information or accessing information.
• Regulatory Pains: As the government regulates cybersecurity, more policy and fine increase compliance will increase as well.

5 Things you can do

• Know you Data/ Regulatory User: Understand the data that you are holding and what regulations apply to you.
• Encrypt your Data: This is easy and FREE on modern operating systems. This essentially “scrambles” your data so others who get ahold of your information may not understand the encryption.
• Cyber Liability Insurance: A new type of insurance policy, so be sure to do research and not by the first one you see!
• Prepare and Practice your Incidence Response Plan: Using your data to practice a drill if incident 1, 2, 3… happened what plan of execution would be in place.

Now that you have learned the 5 myths, threats, and things you can do, you are now prepared to run your law practice with confidence. If you missed the presentation by David Myers be sure to watch the recording below.