As the legal industry becomes increasingly digital, more and more firms are storing and sharing sensitive client information electronically. However, many firms are still relying on outdated methods such as USB drives and CDs to receive and deliver these files. While these methods may seem convenient, they can put a firm’s sensitive information at risk of being compromised.
One major security risk associated with using USB drives and CDs is the risk of ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s files, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. According to a report by the American Bar Association, the legal industry is particularly vulnerable to ransomware attacks, with nearly 20% of law firms reporting that they have been a victim of a ransomware attack.
Another issue with using USB drives and CDs is that they are easily lost or stolen. If a USB drive or CD containing sensitive client information is lost or stolen, it can fall into the wrong hands, putting the firm and its clients at risk.
In light of these risks, it is crucial that law firms adopt more secure methods for receiving and delivering digital files. Instead of using USB drives and CDs, firms should consider using secure file transfer protocols, such as FTP or SFTP, or authenticated cloud-based storage solutions, such as Dropbox, Box or Threadeo. These methods provide a more secure way to transfer files, while the more sophisticated ones also make it easier to track and audit file activity.
In summary, the use of USB drives and CDs to receive and deliver digital files can put a law firm’s sensitive information at risk via multiple avenues, including ransomware and unauthorized interception & access. More secure file transfer with audit trails are in almost all cases the superior option.