[simple_tooltip content=’Ransomware is a type of malicious software from cryptovirology that threatens to publish the victims data or perpetually block access to it unless a ransom is paid.’]Ransomware[/simple_tooltip] is a type of [simple_tooltip content=’Malware is any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network. Malware does the damage after it is implanted or introduced in some way into a targets computer and can take the form of executable code, scripts, active content, and other software.’]malware[/simple_tooltip] that launches when an unsuspecting victim clicks on a link or attachment found in a “[simple_tooltip content=’Phishing is the fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by disguising as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication.’]phishing[/simple_tooltip]” email.^[1][2] Once launched, the ransomware encrypts or locks all of your data files, and may lock each computer workstation and your entire computer network as well.

Depending on the severity of the attack it can take weeks or months to recover the data or to restore your systems.^[3] This means that you could lose access to time-critical legal documents and that you might not be able to recover your documents in time to meet applicable filing deadlines, increasing your exposure to a possible malpractice claim.

Since lawyers attach files to emails when sending documents to and from clients and opposing counsel, law firms are at great risk of having firm personnel click on an attachment that contains ransomware by accident. This risk has increased significantly in recent years as these types of attacks have become more prevalent.^[4][5]

Because your exposure to malpractice claims greatly increases if you are hit with ransomware, and because law firms frequently attach documents to emails making it difficult for staff to spot “phishing” emails and potentially malicious attachments, your firm [simple_tooltip content=’Ransomware is a way for cybercriminals to steal money from you. You, not just large organizations, but individuals and small businesses. It’s happening more and more every day, but most people still refuse to believe that they will be a target of a ransomware attack.’]should worry about ransomware[/simple_tooltip], protect the sensitive data and take the threat very seriously.

References

1. Forms of law firm data breach
2. Ransomware Attack Part 1
3. Finding a niche for starting a business
4. Ransomware
5. Ransomware attack preparedness