Cybersecurity

Nowadays, there is a need for proper cybersecurity protection. A person or company may lose confidential, sensitive, or proprietary information (e.g., customer information, trade secrets) if it does not implement proper cybersecurity measures. The internet is interconnected, and as such, certain complications may become insurmountable. A problem in one area can quickly cause problems in others. For example, a gap in security for a smart device due to a non-updated driver may cause leaks elsewhere due to backdoor access to the computer network. Essentially, a smaller mistake due to a technical gap could cause a larger issue as data is put at risk through programs such as a Keylogger, Trojan Horse, or Worm.

Cybersecurity, as a term, captures most aspects associated with "safe computing" as well as methods to secure and protect information. Combined, these measures should help keep your information safe from bad actors (e.g., hackers). A cybersecurity lawyer who is familiar with the relevant issues can help enforce your legal rights in case of events such as cybersecurity breaches.

Important to cybersecurity is the idea that you, as a person or entity, can safeguard your information whether it is confidential, sensitive, or proprietary information. In general, most people think their computers are safe. If you are the only person to use your device, and the only person that is on your password protected network, you may think you are relatively safe. However, malicious individuals, like hackers or script kiddies, can still break into the electronic devices. This can be done through things as benign as a smart device, flash drive, or email sent to your electronic device. While some of these may require a user's mistake, however, it is important to remind ourselves that our computers are only as protected as we make them. While certain operating systems may be deemed safer, they have been historically safe due to the prevalence of other systems. Essentially, if everyone has a Windows 7 computer, hackers will produce more tools and make more efforts to break into a Windows 7 device. Therefore, it is important to implement protective and reactive measures to decrease the risk.

You should speak to a qualified information technology consultant in order to implement the necessary measures (e.g., encryption, firewall, multi-factor authentication) which will require strong password to access your electronic devices. Furthermore, it is important to use the consultant to help train employees and yourself regarding "safe computing" to avoid basic mistakes like phishing scams and suspicious email attachments. Also, better cybersecurity can be achieved through consulting with security professionals and experienced cybersecurity lawyers to develop policies for you, your employees, and your business when managing electronic files and confidential information.

Without proper security, you may be opening yourself to liability especially if you trust another entity with your information whether it comprises of your address, telephone, email address, credit card information, or social security number. This situation has occurred on a vast scale with larger companies, and if proper data security is in place, those breaches may be avoided in the future.

Finally, it is best to remember that the internet is always changing, and you may need to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who is familiar with cybersecurity issues. In order to speak with a cybersecurity attorney, you may contact us online or call for an initial consultation.