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‘Law firms are under attack’: ALPMA, AUCloud team up to fight cyber criminals
Recent research shows that one in two law firms are not ready to handle cyber incidents. Now, the Australasian Legal Practice Management Association (ALPMA), in partnership with AUCloud, are moving to combat the ongoing threat of cyber crime and data breaches impacting the nation’s legal practices.
Jerome Doraisamy
As reported in September last year, following a study conducted by ALPMA in conjunction with Australian cyber security and secure cloud provider AUCloud, more than 50 per cent of all law firms polled – the survey spoke to 85 law firms – feel they are not ready to handle a cyber incident. Another 19 per cent of firms said they were not doing enough to keep themselves safe in the current threat environment, and 55 per cent of firms said they had no formal policy when it comes to the use of artificial intelligence (AI), despite increasing cases of reputational damage and cyber breaches linked to legal practitioners using AI in the workplace.
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Moreover, recent data from the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) highlights that cyber crime is growing at an alarming rate, with the legal sector ranking among the top three most targeted industries.
Reflecting on such findings, AUCloud chief executive Peter Maloney said the rate of cyber attacks reported by Australian law firms is at an all-time high, with cyber crime now the biggest threat facing the legal industry.
“The latest government reporting and industry research is telling us that the Australian legal sector is under attack and currently extremely vulnerable to cyber threats,” he detailed.
“Law firms are under attack due to the critical role they play in our society; the abundance and nature of information we trust them with, their financial responsibilities and authority to act.”
In response, AUCloud and ALPMA have launched an initiative to help Australian law firms navigate their cyber security journey, increase their posture and ultimately help mitigate the risks associated with cyber attacks.
“The initiative involves a mix of an integrated learning and development program, encompassing education and the deployment of cutting-edge cyber security technology tools, best practice policies and the latest frameworks,” Mr Maloney explained.
“The program leverages the skills and expertise of Australia’s top cyber security professionals, ensuring a comprehensive and sophisticated approach to safeguarding against cyber threats.”
ALPMA chief executive Emma Elliott added that the cyber resilience program is now available, complimentary to all members.
“The legal industry can now access the latest advice, tools, technology and education to better equip themselves against cyber crime,” she said.
“As a membership body, we are continuously striving to bring value to our members and solve the many business challenges members face daily. This strategic partnership with AUCloud reflects ALPMA’s commitment to elevating cyber security standards within the legal sector, offering valuable resources and insights to its members.”
“Recognising the shared responsibility to adapt to evolving cyber threats, the initiative underscores the importance of following best practices in the legal industry,” she proclaimed.
The collaborative initiative will include the delivery of an annual schedule of in-person and online complimentary learning and development opportunities, specifically tailored to bolster the security measures of Australian law firms, particularly ALPMA members, the organisations outlined in a statement, and assist member firms meet continuing CPD requirements.
AUCloud will also extend special cyber security resilience packages and discounts to all ALPMA members across its suite of award-winning cyber security and secure cloud solutions.
