Cybersecurity remains a pivotal concern for the legal sector, driving efforts to strengthen security measures.
- In 2021, following notable cyberattacks on barristers, a Cybersecurity Working Group was established by the Law Society and Bar Council.
- A standardised Information Security Questionnaire was introduced in 2022, comprising 24 essential security-focused questions.
- The legal sector has widely adopted this questionnaire, reportedly reducing cyberattacks on barristers and chambers.
- In May 2024, an updated questionnaire and new Cyber and Information Security Affirmation were released to bolster information protection.
Cybersecurity continues to be of paramount importance in the legal sector. In 2021, after several cyberattacks targeted barristers, the Law Society and the Bar Council responded by forming a Cybersecurity Working Group. This group included professionals from both legal and information security fields, aiming to address the emergent threats to the profession.
In 2022, one of the key initiatives from this working group was the development and distribution of a standardised Information Security Questionnaire. This document featured 24 comprehensive questions that focused on assessing and enhancing the security measures within chambers’ IT systems. It served a dual purpose: to guide Chambers in establishing appropriate security protocols and to raise awareness about the importance of such measures amongst legal professionals.
The legal sector’s adoption of this questionnaire has been widespread, contributing to a reduction in cyberattacks affecting barristers and their chambers. However, cyber threats are constantly evolving, necessitating continual vigilance and adaptation of security strategies.
In May 2024, the Cybersecurity Working Group published an updated version of the questionnaire. This revision incorporated new security topics, reflecting the changing landscape of cyber threats. Alongside this, the group introduced a voluntary Cyber and Information Security Affirmation, designed for solicitors to attach to their instructions to barristers. This affirmation aids in ensuring a consistent application of security controls, thereby safeguarding shared information.
While these initiatives do not eliminate all cyber risks, they represent significant progress in the legal sector’s journey towards maintaining client trust. By protecting sensitive information and ensuring high-quality service delivery, legal professionals continue to uphold their reputations.
The legal sector remains vigilant in its efforts to combat cyber threats, continually adapting to protect critical information and maintain client trust.
