Law firms are primary targets for cybercriminals due to the vast amounts of client data they handle. They often find themselves exposed to various cyber threats that can compromise client confidentiality, disrupt operations, and damage reputations. On top of the sheer volume and sensitivity of data, other reasons firms are an attractive target are because of the:

• Handling of intellectual property and mergers
• Heavier reliance on cloud platforms
• Weaker security infrastructures in smaller law firms

From phishing attacks to more sophisticated ransomware campaigns, cyber threats are evolving, and law firms must stay vigilant. By understanding these common threats—how they work and their impact—firms can implement best practices to protect their data and maintain robust cybersecurity.

Below are the most common types of cyber attacks and emerging threats that law firms need to guard against:

Phishing Attacks
Phishing involves deceptive emails, texts, or websites that trick users into sharing personal information or downloading malware. These attacks often impersonate clients, court systems, or trusted contacts, aiming to manipulate employees.

Malware
Malware can arrive through fake subpoenas or court orders containing malicious attachments or links. Once clicked, it grants hackers access to firm data. It can also spread via emails, untrusted websites, or software vulnerabilities.

DDoS Attacks (Distributed Denial of Service)
DDoS attacks overwhelm a firm’s network, disrupting services and preventing legitimate access. This can be particularly damaging during time-sensitive tasks like discovery, delaying cases, and potentially causing missed deadlines.

Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts firm files, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Attacks have become more sophisticated with double extortion, where criminals threaten to release stolen data if payment is not made.

Insider and Third-Party Attacks
Insider threats from employees or contractors and third-party breaches pose significant risks. Employees may accidentally or maliciously expose data, and third-party vendors may also be vulnerable targets.

Business Email Compromise (BEC)
BEC attacks involve cybercriminals impersonating trusted individuals within or outside the firm to deceive employees into transferring funds or sharing information.

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APTs are long-term, targeted attacks where hackers infiltrate a firm’s network, remaining undetected while stealing data over extended periods, often causing significant damage before being discovered.

State-Sponsored Attacks
State-sponsored threats involve sophisticated tactics like phishing and network intrusions to steal data or monitor communications.

As cyber threats evolve, law firms must implement strong security measures, encryption, access controls, and employee training to protect data and maintain compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).

For added protection against growing cyber threats, law firms must prioritize penetration testing as a critical part of their security strategy. Regular penetration tests simulate real-world cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. This realistic approach is essential for detecting flaws in networks, systems, and applications that could otherwise remain undetected for months or years.

In addition to penetration testing, law firms must defend the network perimeter with secure configurations, implement multi-factor authentication, perform routine risk assessments, and regularly train employees on security awareness. A reliable backup system is necessary to ensure business continuity in the event of a cyberattack.

Third-party vendor management and an incident response plan should also be prioritized to protect against supply chain risks and ensure a swift reaction in the event of a breach. Lastly, firms should consider cyber liability insurance to mitigate the financial consequences of attacks.

By emphasizing penetration testing alongside other cybersecurity practices, law firms can stay ahead of emerging threats, minimize risks, and ensure their client data remains protected.