Contact Sales
Managed IT Services

5 Reasons Law Firms need to prioritise IT security in 2025

The year is 2025, and the legal industry is facing a crossroads of technological advancement and heightened cyber security threats. Cybercriminals increasingly target law firms entrusted with confidential client information and sensitive case details. To secure their operations, maintain client trust, and align with regulatory demands, robust IT security is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.

This blog explores five compelling reasons why law firms must prioritise IT security in 2025. Whether you’re a managing partner or an IT security expert in the legal sector, this guide provides actionable insights to safeguard your firm.

Cyber Security Security
7 min

Posted 15/01/2025

Why IT Security matters for law firms

Before diving into the reasons, it is crucial to understand what’s at stake. With rapidly evolving cyber threats, including ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and data breaches, the legal sector has become a lucrative target for hackers. The cost of ignoring IT security is far too high – both financially and reputationally.

Here’s why law firms can’t afford to ignore IT security:

1. Protecting Sensitive Client Data

Law Firms handle some of the most sensitive information imaginable – corporate contracts, intellectual property, financial records,  and personal details. A single breach can expose this data, leading to catastrophic consequences for both the firm and its clients. 

  • The Threat: According to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), 75% of UK law firms reported being targeted by cybercriminals in 2023. This figure is expected to rise further by the end of 2025.
  • The Cost: As reported by IBM in 2023, the average cost of a data breach in the UK has reached £ 3.4 million. The loss of client trust and potential regulatory fines worsens the law firms' financial impact.

Actionable Tip: Invest in robust encryption technologies, implement multi-factor authentication, and train staff to recognise phishing attempts. A proactive approach to securing client data is essential to staying one step ahead of cybercriminals.

2. Meeting Growing Regulatory Demands

Government bodies and legal associations are tightening IT security regulations for law firms to ensure client data protection and operational resilience.

  • The Update: New compliance requirements under regulations such as GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 are stricter than ever.
  • The Consequence: Non-compliance could result in hefty fines from the Information Commissioner’s Officer (ICO), the SRA, damaged reputations, and even the potential loss of operating licenses in some cases.

Actionable Tip: Stay updated on applicable privacy laws and invest in compliance management technology. Conduct regular audits to ensure your IT practices align with industry standards and legal requirements.

3. Combating the Rise of Ransomware

Ransomware remains one of the most devastating forms of cyberattacks, and law firms are high-value targets due to the sensitive nature of their data.

  • The Danger: Cybercriminals target UK law firms, encrypting critical data and demanding steep ransoms. A Kaspersky report shows a 40% rise in ransomware incidents targeting professional services from 2022-2024.
  • The Ripple Effect: Beyond paying the ransom, the resulting downtime can cripple a firm’s operations, delay cases, and erode client trust and satisfaction.

Actionable Tip: Strengthen your defences against ransomware by regularly backing up data, restricting access to critical systems, and leveraging intrusion detection systems.

4. Maintain Client Trust and Reputation

Trust is the foundation of every law firm–client relationship. A single cybersecurity incident can irreparably damage your firm's reputation, leaving clients hesitant to entrust their legal matters to you.

  • The Fallout: A survey by PwC found that 85% of clients claim they would leave a service provider if they perceived a lack of data security
  • Beyond reputation: Once trust is breached, rebuilding it is costly and time-consuming. Firms risk losing existing clients and missing out on new business.

Actionable Tip: Be transparent about your security measures. Highlight your firm’s IT security protocols during client onboarding to demonstrate your commitment to protecting their information. 

5. Future-proofing Operations in a Digital Era

With the legal industry adopting tools like e-discovery platforms, client portals, and AI-powered legal research tools, IT security must evolve to safeguard those technologies.

  • The Trend: Gartner predicts that by 2025, 75% of legal operations will use AI-based software to optimise workflows
  • The Risk: Any vulnerability in these systems can lead to exposure, operational disruptions, or AI systems making biased decisions due to compromised training data. 

Actionable Tip: Integrate cybersecurity measures into every stage of your digital transformation initiatives. Prioritise vendor-vetted solutions that meet stringent security standards. 

What Can Law Firms Do to Strengthen IT Security?

Here’s a consolidated checklist of actions law firms should consider in 2025:

  • Conduct regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Provide cyber security training to all employees.
  • Adopt zero-trust architecture to limit unauthorized access.
  • Partner with managed security service providers (MSPs) for 24/7 threat monitoring.
  • Keep software and systems up to date with the latest patches and updates.

Work with Trusted Security Experts

At the intersection of legal expertise and IT security, law firms need more than just tools—they need partners who understand the unique challenges of the legal profession. Don’t wait for a breach to highlight vulnerabilities within your firm. By taking a proactive stance, you can safeguard your client relationships, reputation, and future.

Secure Your Firm’s Future Today

Cyber security isn’t just a priority for IT teams—it’s a boardroom issue that affects every aspect of your firm. The good news? Prioritising IT security in 2025 doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Take the first step by auditing your current systems, addressing vulnerabilities, and building a security-first culture.

Need expert guidance? Talk to one of our experts to see how we can tailor a security solution that aligns with your firm’s needs.

Your firm's future—and your client’s trust—depends on it.