The Top Cybersecurity Threats We Saw in 2024 (and How to Protect Yourself in the Future)

Cybersecurity threats have been rising for decades, and 2024 marked an alarming spike in cyberattacks and data breaches. More than 6 billion records were compromised, and nearly 2,800 incidents were publicly disclosed, affecting businesses across all industries in the U.S.

Law firms, in particular, face increased risks as they handle large volumes of sensitive client data. Staying ahead of these evolving threats is crucial for maintaining client trust and protecting confidential information.

Explore the top cybersecurity challenges of 2024 and learn how your firm can protect private information with secure law firm management software.

The Evolving Cybersecurity Landscape in 2024

Cyberattacks have been a major challenge for businesses for years, but in 2024, criminals used new methods to gain access to private information. These cyber attackers used the following tactics to infiltrate systems and steal sensitive information:

• Ransomware: Attackers locked organizations out of their data, holding it hostage until a payment was made, often causing massive disruptions to daily operations. In 2024, 59% of organizations were targeted by ransomware attacks, with an average ransom of $2.73 million.

• Phishing: Criminals use deceptive emails and websites that mimic authentic ones to trick people into sharing private information, such as passwords or financial details.

• AI and IoT vulnerabilities: As artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices became more common, they introduced new weak spots in security, making it easier for attackers to access systems.

Top Cybersecurity Threats of 2024 for Law Firms

Law firms faced unique cybersecurity challenges in 2024, with attackers targeting their sensitive data and critical systems. Here are the top threats and how they can impact your firm:

Threat	How It Operates	Risks To Law Firms
Ransomware	Ransomware encrypts an organization’s data, locking access until a ransom is paid, often in cryptocurrency.	Loss of access to client documents and case filesDisrupted operationsMajor financial losses due to ransom payments
Phishing	Phishing tricks users into revealing sensitive data, using fake emails or websites to appear legitimate.	Exposure of confidential client informationUnauthorized access to systems and financial assets
Data Breaches	Data breaches occur when unauthorized individuals access sensitive data through hacking, human error, or internal leaks.	Loss of sensitive client data, such as legal documents or communicationsLegal liability and potential lawsuitsReputational damage and loss of client trust
Vulnerabilities in New Technology	Weaknesses in connected devices or systems, such as unpatched software or unsafe connections, allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to networks or sensitive data.	Unauthorized control over critical systemsService disruptions and data lossIncreased security risks from new technology

Real-World Examples of These Cyberthreats

Real-world examples of major cyberattacks help illustrate the scale and severity of threats to law firms. Here are two examples from recent years:

• Grubman Shire Meiselas & Sacks: In 2020, this firm was hit by a ransomware attack from the REvil group, demanding $42 million after stealing 750GB of sensitive data from clients like Lady Gaga and Madonna. The firm refused to pay, leading to ongoing disruptions and legal challenges​.

• Houser LLP: In May 2023, this firm experienced a data breach that exposed the personal information of over 325,000 individuals, including Social Security numbers, financial details, and medical records. Hackers copied files from the firm’s network, compromising clients’ sensitive data from high-profile financial institutions​.

How To Protect Your Law Firm Against Cyber Threats

To reduce the risk of cyberattacks, focus on a strong cybersecurity strategy that includes staff training, encrypted law firm management software, and regular system updates. Use these best practices to store your data safely:

• Regular Data Backups: Regularly back up all critical data, storing it in a secure cloud environment. For instance, backdocket’s advanced cloud storage keeps your backups safe from potential threats, providing quick access and recovery in the event of a ransomware attack or other disruptions.

• Use Strong Authentication Measures: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to access your law firm management software. This helps reduce the risk of unauthorized access if passwords and credentials are compromised.

• Keep Software Updated: Install the latest versions, patches, and security updates for all software, from operating systems to work tools. Backdocket updates automatically, ensuring you have the most recent version so your systems stay safe from the latest known attacks.

• Employee Training and Awareness: Conduct regular training sessions on cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing emails and avoiding common security pitfalls.

• Invest in Cybersecurity Tools: Use platforms like backdocket that offer encryption and multi-factor authentication to defend your firm’s data. With the system’s role-based access controls, only authorized personnel can access sensitive information, shielding against cyber threats.

Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats With Backdocket

The cybersecurity environment is constantly changing. To protect their data and systems, law firms must stay proactive by keeping up with the latest threats and regularly updating their cybersecurity practices.

Backdocket offers cloud storage solutions for managing client data and is equipped with advanced security protocols to protect sensitive information. Our platform complies with industry standards such as HIPAA and GDPR, ensuring your firm adheres to the highest data protection standards.

Contact us to schedule a free demo and learn how Backdocket can help you protect your client’s data and provide peace of mind.

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