Cyber security is a fast-moving industry, as criminals use technology and AI to develop more and more sophisticated attacks. On top of this, lawyers may be at particular risk of cyber attacks due to the sensitive information they handle.
Lawyers have access to confidential client information, which could include financial records, personal data, and confidential business data. If this information is compromised, it could have serious consequences for the client, the lawyer and the law firm.
Fully-funded cyber security training
The North West Cyber Resilience Centre is currently offering free membership and a one-to-one training session for law firms based in Merseyside. This offer has been funded by Merseyside Police and the Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner, with funds taken from proceeds of crime to be put back into the community.
The programme was launched last year – and still has places available on a first-come, first served basis.
The cyber security training can help lawyers understand the different types of cyber threats they may face, how to protect themselves from these threats, and what to do if they are the victim of a cyber attack.
DI Dan Giannasi is head of cyber and innovation at the NWCRC, and is also a seconded police officer from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit. He said: “We strongly advise any business in Merseyside to take up the offer of free cyber security training from our experts.
“As a not-for-profit organisation, which is backed by the regional police forces, we aim to help as many small businesses protect themselves against cyber crime as possible. Cyber attacks can be hugely damaging for any small business, but particularly law firms, who deal with lots of sensitive data and information.”
In addition, the NWCRC offers affordable cyber services such as a Cyber Risk Assessment. This is a great place to start for any organisation to understand what technical and internal controls are in place and if they are sufficient.
Find out more about the free training sessions and membership of the North West Cyber Resilience Centre by contacting: Niomie@nwcrc.co.uk or visit our website: https://www.nwcrc.co.uk/
Photograph shows Merseyside launch event:
L-R: DI Dan Giannasi, head of cyber and innovation at the NWCRC; Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram; Chief Constable Serena Kennedy of Merseyside Police; Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell and Asif Hamid MBE, CEO of The Contact Company and chairman of Liverpool City Region Local Enterprise Partnership, who spoke about his experiences of a cyber attack.