When it comes to protecting your law firm from cyberthreats, the basics still matter. A lot. According to IBM’s 2023 Cost Of A Data Breach Report, 82% of breaches involved data stored in the cloud—and many could have been prevented with simple, foundational safeguards.
That’s where “cyber hygiene” comes in—your firm’s version of daily handwashing. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. Skip the basics, and you’re gambling with client confidentiality, compliance, and your reputation.
For managing partners seeking managed IT services for Salt Lake City law firms, here are four cyber hygiene essentials every legal practice must lock down:
Keep Your Network Secure
Your network is the backbone of your firm’s operations. Encrypt sensitive client data, enable a firewall, and secure WiFi with a hidden SSID. Every router should be password-protected, and attorneys working remotely must use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to connect securely to case files. Our IT security services for Salt Lake City law firms ensure these safeguards are in place and monitored 24/7.
Teach Your Team How To Stay Protected
The weakest link in most breaches isn’t the technology—it’s people. Every attorney, paralegal, and staff member must follow clear security policies: strong passwords, multifactor authentication (MFA), and strict data handling rules. Just as important, your staff must learn to spot phishing emails and avoid suspicious downloads. Qual IT offers legal-specific IT support in Salt Lake City, including employee security training and phishing simulations designed for law firms.
Back Up Your Critical Case Data
Imagine losing access to client contracts, pleadings, or discovery files right before trial. That’s why automatic, regular backups are essential. Back up everything—case files, billing systems, HR records, and email archives. Store copies securely in the cloud or offsite to ensure continuity in the event of ransomware or a system crash. As a dedicated IT provider for Salt Lake City law firms, Qual IT not only sets up backups but also tests recovery procedures so you’re never caught unprepared.
Limit Data Access
Not every employee should have access to every document. Role-based access ensures staff only see the data they need, reducing the damage if a breach occurs. Administrative privileges should be restricted to trusted IT staff and partners. Just as important—when attorneys or staff leave the firm, their access must be revoked immediately. Our managed IT services for Salt Lake City law firms help implement airtight access controls that protect your most sensitive data.
Security Is Well Worth The Hassle
Yes, these steps take time and effort. But compared to the cost of a breach—lost clients, compliance violations, reputational damage—they’re an investment in your firm’s survival. For law firms, strong cybersecurity isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of trust.
Want To Get Ahead Of The Threats?
If you’re unsure how your firm measures up, now’s the time to find out. Our free Cybersecurity Network Assessment will uncover vulnerabilities, identify compliance gaps, and provide a clear, actionable plan to strengthen your cyber hygiene. At Qual IT, we specialize in IT services for Salt Lake City law firms, giving attorneys like you peace of mind and the freedom to focus on winning cases—not fighting IT fires.
