6 Privacy and Security Tips for Legal and IT

Written by Mary Curtin | Nov 22, 2024

Legal professionals are custodians of highly sensitive information. From vendor confidentiality to regulatory compliance, the stakes are high when it comes to safeguarding data. But where should you even start when navigating this maze of modern privacy and security challenges?

This listicle offers ten actionable tips designed specifically for legal professionals to enhance security while keeping things manageable.

1. Implement secure contract lifecycle management

Those casual document exchanges through unsecured channels? Not the best place for them. Legal professionals should adopt contract lifecycle management (CLM) platforms like LinkSquares to handle sensitive agreements. Platforms should integrate seamlessly across devices—because secure contract management should be efficient.

Actionable tip:

Review your current contract management processes to identify vulnerabilities, then begin integrating secure tools to enhance protection.

2. Regular data backups and encryption are non-negotiable

Imagine losing years of files due to a ransomware attack. Regular backups are your insurance policy against cyber disasters. Encrypt your backups, too—you don't want someone swiping unprotected backups from your cloud or physical drives. Tools like Veracrypt or encrypted cloud storage services can be literal lifesavers here.

Actionable tip:

Establish a backup schedule (daily or weekly). Use encryption tools like BitLocker or Veracrypt to secure them. Store backups securely—preferably in separate locations.

3. Secure password management and multi-factor authentication (MFA)

Please tell us your passwords are not “123456” or “password.” Implement a password manager like Dashlane or LastPass to create and store complex, unique passwords for all accounts. Add MFA for an extra layer of protection. Trust us, the 10 extra seconds it takes to log in are worth it when your data stays safe.

Actionable tip:

Work with your information security (IT) team! Start by auditing existing passwords and replace any weak ones. Then enable MFA on all accounts—email, case management systems, and even your team’s Netflix (because why not?).

4. Train your team on data security best practices

Your employees are your strongest asset and your weakest link. A single misstep, like clicking on a phishing email, can sink the ship. Conduct regular, engaging security training sessions to ensure everyone understands the dos and don’ts of data protection.

Actionable tip:

Simulate phishing attacks within your firm and track results to identify areas for improvement. Trust us, a little paranoia in this case is healthy.

5. Conduct regular security audits and upgrades

Technology evolves fast. Security threats evolve faster. Schedule regular audits to review your systems, firewalls, and access logs. Outdated software and hardware are essentially unlocked doors for hackers; keep them up to date.

Actionable tip

Work with your IT team to set up tabletop exercises and security checks.

6. Stay compliant with data protection laws (GDPR, CCPA, etc.)

Trust isn’t just good ethics—it’s legally binding. Familiarize yourself with applicable data privacy laws like GDPR, CCPA, or HIPAA. Compliance isn't optional when fines can reach six figures (or higher).

Actionable tip

Hire a legal tech consultant to map and address compliance gaps. Integrate a privacy policy management tool like OneTrust to streamline compliance efforts.

Keep your company safe and secure

Navigating the world of legal data privacy and security can be a bit complicated, but inaction isn’t an option. With these ten essential tips, you're better equipped to protect not just your clients, but your reputation and livelihood, too.

Looking to sharpen your security practices even further? Connect with LinkSquares today and discover solutions tailored exclusively for legal professionals.

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