With a drastic increase in cyberattacks these last few years, law firms are beginning to realize they are a prime target and need ironclad cybersecurity policies. From handling client data to working with sensitive information, law firms are a treasure trove for hackers. Without proper cybersecurity, law firms are essentially headed up a creek not just without a paddle—without the boat!
But there is good news—there are a number of low-cost cybersecurity policies your firm can implement today to help keep you safe. Let’s review ten of them.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication is an extra layer of security that requires not just a password but also something else like a code from a physical token or your mobile device. This makes it much harder for hackers to gain access to your systems since they would need to have both the password and the physical token or device.
Implementing MFA across your organization is one of the smartest, low-cost cybersecurity moves you could make today.
Password Policy
Cybersecurity policies should always include guidelines for passwords. Requiring employees to use complex passwords that are difficult to guess is a great way to protect your data by making it difficult for hackers to guess your password. You should also require employees to change their passwords regularly and not allow them to reuse old passwords.
Employee Training
Educating your employees is crucial to protecting your business. Make sure to train on cybersecurity best practices like:
- Not clicking on links in emails from unknown senders
- Not opening attachments from unknown senders
- Not sharing passwords
By educating your employees on cybersecurity best practices, you can make it much harder for hackers to gain access to your systems.
Update Your Software
It’s time to stop hitting the snooze button on those updates. They’re important! They often include security fixes that can help protect your systems from being hacked. So next time you get an update notification, take a few minutes to install the update. It could save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Improve Physical Security
One of the best ways to improve your firm’s cybersecurity is to improve physical security. This means things like not writing passwords down and leaving them where they can be easily found, not leaving devices unlocked and unattended, and not sharing passwords with anyone.
Use a Password Manager
A password manager is a tool that helps you keep track of all your passwords in one place. This way, you only have to remember one master password, and the password manager will fill in the rest. This can be a secure, organized way to keep your passwords safe and make them easier to remember.
Back Up Your Data
When your data is properly backed up, you can face the unknown with confidence. If your systems are ever hacked or compromised, you can restore your data from the backup. There are a number of different ways to back up your data, so you’ll need to choose a method with your managed service provider that best suits your needs.
Use a VPN in Public Places
Another great way to protect your firm’s data is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when working in public places. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for hackers to intercept and steal your data. This is especially important if you’re using public Wi-Fi, which is often unsecured and easy for hackers to access.
Use Best Email Practices
Don’t think you have to worry about your email? Over 90% of cyberattacks are carried out through email. If you want your law firm to stay safe, make sure you and your employees are being safe over email.
Partner With a Managed Cybersecurity Provider:
An exceptional managed cybersecurity provider can help you implement the best cybersecurity policies for your firm, and they can also provide around-the-clock monitoring and support. If you partner with a managed cybersecurity provider like Fresh Managed IT, you can have peace of mind knowing that your firm’s data is always safe and secure.
Implement Stronger Cybersecurity Policies with Fresh Managed IT
Trying to tackle cybersecurity all at once can be overwhelming and scary. But the truth is, there are several low-cost, easily-adopted cybersecurity strategies and solutions your law firm can implement today and tomorrow. With the guidance of your local managed cybersecurity provider, Fresh Managed IT, you never have to worry about getting behind on security again!
Schedule a consultation with Fresh Managed IT today to implement effective cybersecurity policies!
