Protecting your information in a Digital Age: What clients should know about Cybersecurity

In today’s digital world, most communication between solicitors and clients takes place online. Clients often share personal, financial and legal information, making it essential to remain alert to cyber threats. Cybersecurity plays a vital role in protecting confidentiality and maintaining trust.

Law firms handle sensitive materials such as identification documents, contracts and financial records, all of which can be attractive to criminals. Cyber incidents in the legal sector can include phishing emails, ransomware, impersonation scams and data breaches, each of which may lead to financial loss or reputational harm.

Simple steps to stay Cyber Safe: 

  • Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages, particularly those requesting changes to payment details or urgent action. Always confirm such requests by calling your solicitor using a verified number.
  • Avoid sending sensitive identification documents by standard email. Use secure upload links or password-protected files instead.
  • Do not access confidential information over public Wi-Fi networks or shared computers.
  • Keep your devices up to date and ensure reputable antivirus protection is installed.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts and consider using a password manager for added security.

Cyber risks can arise across all areas of legal practice. Conveyancing and Bridging Finance transactions are sometimes targeted by fraudsters seeking to intercept or redirect funds, while Immigration, Family, Probate and Litigation matters often involve highly confidential information. Each area of practice presents its own challenges and careful handling of data, combined with robust digital security practices, remain essential throughout the profession.

UK Data Protection Law, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, sets out how personal information should be managed and protected. These frameworks exist to safeguard individuals and ensure that information is handled responsibly. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides guidance on best practice and maintaining confidentiality in a digital age.

 Our Commitment to Clients

At Sriharans Solicitors, we understand that trust lies at the heart of every client relationship. We take the protection of our clients’ information extremely seriously and handle all data in accordance with professional and ethical standards. Our internal systems and procedures are regularly reviewed to help safeguard against emerging cyber threats and our team remains alert to risks that could affect client confidentiality. By combining sound legal practice with careful data management, we aim to provide a safe, transparent and reliable service at all times.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. While solicitors continue to strengthen their systems and processes, clients also play an important role by remaining vigilant and reporting anything suspicious. Open and honest communication between solicitor and client is often the best protection. If you ever receive an unexpected or concerning message, contact your solicitor immediately using verified contact details.

We at Sriharans believe that protecting client information is not merely a professional duty it is a fundamental part of how we practice law. By remaining alert and following a few straightforward precautions, clients and solicitors can work together to ensure that personal and financial information remains secure throughout every stage of a legal matter.

Reliable Sources of Cybersecurity information:

If you would like to read more about protecting your information and recognising genuine online communication, the resources below provide clear, reliable guidance from trusted UK authorities on data protection and online security: