Law Council launches cybersecurity resource custom-built for Australian lawyers

14/12/2016

www.cyberprecedent.com.au

The Law Council of Australia has launched a new information campaign to help lawyers protect themselves against cyber threats. Cyber Precedent has been custom-built for Australian legal professionals and is based on expert advice.

Cybercrime and cyberespionage are not new problems for the Australian legal sector. They are, however, problems that are growing exponentially. Lawyers are an attractive target, because of the sensitive information we hold. They are also a sensitive target, because any breach of security will likely affect client confidentiality.

Many Australian law firms and practices have invested in cybersecurity measures and protocols. But it can be daunting, especially for barristers, as sole-practitioners, to find the time and resources to defend against cybercrime.

The Law Council of Australia has launched a new information campaign to help lawyers protect themselves against cyber threats. Cyber Precedent has been custom-built for Australian legal professionals and is based on expert advice. It also includes valuable input from a number of Law Societies and Bar Associations. The easy to navigate resources include:

• A list of the essential cybersecurity precautions law firms should take;
• Advice on how to protect against ransomware;
• A response checklist in the case of a cyber attack; and
• A cybersecurity toolkit for the education of staff.

It is every Australian lawyer’s responsibility to take cybersecurity seriously. The Law Council hope these new resources, which will be updated regularly, will help members do just that. We strongly urge members to bookmark this page today and start exploring what’s available.