As the final quarter of the year approaches, law firms are ramping up for a busy stretch filled with case deadlines, client meetings, and year-end reporting. While preparing for this demanding period, it’s crucial not to overlook cybersecurity risks that tend to increase during Q4.
Here are the top five cyber threats law firms should be aware of as they head into the final months of the year—and steps you can take to mitigate them.
1. Phishing and Spear Phishing Attacks
Phishing remains one of the most common entry points for cybercriminals targeting law firms. In Q4, hackers often exploit year-end pressures by sending urgent-looking emails that trick employees into clicking malicious links or disclosing credentials. Spear phishing, which targets specific individuals with personalized information, is especially dangerous.
Mitigation: Regular staff training and simulated phishing tests can raise awareness and reduce risk.
2. Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware attacks lock you out of critical data until a ransom is paid. Law firms hold sensitive client information and case files, making them lucrative targets. Attackers know firms are often more likely to pay during busy periods to avoid costly downtime.
Mitigation: Keep systems patched, maintain offline backups, and have a clear incident response plan.
3. Insider Threats
Whether malicious or accidental, insider threats from employees or contractors can expose confidential client data or disrupt operations. The pressure of Q4 workloads can increase the risk of human error or disgruntled insiders acting out.
Mitigation: Regularly review user access, monitor unusual activity, and reinforce security policies.
4. Unsecured Remote Access
Many law firms rely on remote work or flexible schedules, especially during peak seasons. If remote access isn’t properly secured, it creates vulnerabilities for attackers to infiltrate your network.
Mitigation: Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA), use VPNs, and monitor remote login attempts closely.
5. Third-Party Vendor Risks
Law firms often work with various third-party service providers for case management, billing, and communication. Vendors with weak cybersecurity can introduce risks to your firm’s network.
Mitigation: Conduct vendor risk assessments and require cybersecurity compliance standards.
