There are a number of best practices that law firms can take to avoid Business Email Compromise (BEC) within their organization.
1. Train Employees
It is important for law firms to train their employees on a regular basis about the latest cyber security protocols and how to recognize phishing attempts. This training should cover topics such as password management, two-factor authentication, secure communication techniques, data encryption and more. The key is to ensure that all employees are aware of the risks and can quickly recognize attempts to compromise their information.
2. Implement Secure Passwords
Law firms should make sure that strong passwords are used for all accounts, especially those related to sensitive data. Additionally, passwords should be changed regularly, so if a compromised password is discovered it will not remain active for long. Passwords should also not be shared between employees or stored in a place where they can easily be accessed.
3. Implement Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to accounts and is highly recommended for law firms using email services. This feature requires users to enter additional information, such as a PIN code or security token, before they can access their accounts. This makes it more difficult for hackers to gain access to accounts and important data.
4. Use Encryption
Encryption is a great way to protect data from being accessed by unauthorized parties. Law firms should use encryption when sending emails or other sensitive information over the internet. It is also a good idea to encrypt any data that is stored on computers or servers.
5. Monitor Email Activity
Law firms should monitor the email activity of their employees and flag any suspicious activities. This includes checking for emails with links to malicious websites, emails from unknown sources, or messages requesting sensitive information. If anything looks out of place, the issue should be investigated further.
6. Use Secure File Sharing Services
Law firms should avoid sending large files as attachments via email and instead use secure file sharing services. These services provide extra security measures to protect data from being stolen or compromised, and some also offer features such as encryption for added protection.
7. Be Cautious With Contact Information
Law firms should be cautious when exchanging contact information with clients and other third parties. It is best to only provide contact information over secure channels, such as password-protected emails or phone calls. Additionally, it is important to not include any sensitive information in emails that are sent outside the law firm. This includes credit card numbers, social security numbers, and any other confidential information.
By following these best practices, law firms can help protect their systems and data from Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks. These measures also serve to maintain the trust of clients who rely on law firms to keep their sensitive information secure. With proper cyber security protocols in place, law firms can ensure that their data and systems remain safe.