Cybersecurity Measures to Meet SRA Compliance

What Cybersecurity Does the SRA Expect Law Firms to Have?

Law firms are frequent cyberattack targets due to sensitive client information. The Solicitors Regulation Authority requires strong cybersecurity measures. Most compliant UK law firms implement 8–12 core security controls, including multi-factor authentication, endpoint protection, secure backups, and staff training. For a 50-person firm, these protections typically cost £100–£150 per user monthly as part of managed IT services.

The foundation involves building a complete security framework that protects client data, prevents unauthorised access, and ensures business continuity.

What Are the SRA Cybersecurity Expectations for Law Firms?

Firms must take reasonable steps to prevent:

• data breaches
• ransomware attacks
• phishing scams
• unauthorised access to case files

While the SRA doesn’t mandate specific technologies, it requires appropriate controls to protect client data and manage cyber risk. Many firms align practices with recognised frameworks:

• Cyber Essentials
• ISO27001
• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) guidance

The 10 Essential Cybersecurity Controls Law Firms Should Implement

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds security when accessing systems like Microsoft 365, case management systems, and remote access tools. Even compromised passwords cannot enable unauthorised access.

2. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Modern endpoint protection detects suspicious behaviour on devices and stops ransomware or malware before network spread.

3. Email Security and Phishing Protection

Phishing remains common against law firms, especially those handling conveyancing. Advanced email filtering blocks malicious messages.

4. Secure Cloud Backups

Backups are critical for ransomware recovery or accidental data loss. Backups should be encrypted, regularly tested, and stored securely offsite.

5. Patch Management

Keeping operating systems and software current prevents attackers exploiting known vulnerabilities.

6. Device Encryption

Encryption ensures lost or stolen laptops cannot expose sensitive client data.

7. Identity and Access Management

User permissions require careful control so employees access only necessary systems and information.

8. Security Awareness Training

Human error remains a major risk. Staff need regular training recognising phishing emails and suspicious activity.

9. Network Monitoring

Continuous monitoring detects unusual behaviour and potential threats before escalation.

10. Incident Response Planning

Firms should document cybersecurity incident procedures including containment, investigation, and communication.

Many implement these through fully managed IT services including monitoring, tools, and support.

The Biggest Cybersecurity Risks Facing UK Law Firms

Cybercrime against law firms increases due to legal data value and financial transactions. Common threats include:

• Phishing attacks targeting email
• Business email compromise during financial transactions
• Ransomware attacks encrypting critical data
• Credential theft through weak passwords
• Insider threats from compromised accounts

Even small incidents disrupt operations, damage reputation, and invite regulatory scrutiny.

As firms adopt technologies like artificial intelligence, ensuring implementation within secure, compliant environments matters. Firms should establish clear policies governing AI tool usage and client data protection.

How Law Firms Can Achieve Cyber Essentials or ISO27001

Cyber Essentials

This UK government-backed certification verifies basic cybersecurity protections exist.

Typical timeline: 4–8 weeks

Requirements include:

• secure firewall configuration
• access control
• malware protection
• patch management
• secure device configuration

ISO27001

This comprehensive information security management framework proves more extensive.

Typical timeline: 4–12 months

Requirements include:

• formal security policies
• risk assessments
• security governance
• ongoing monitoring and improvement

Many growing firms start with Cyber Essentials and progress to ISO27001 as security maturity increases.

How Often Should Law Firms Review Their Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity requires continuous monitoring and regular reviews, not one-time projects.

Typical governance schedule:

Activity	Frequency
Security monitoring	Continuous
Vulnerability scans	Monthly
Staff security training	Quarterly
IT strategy review	Quarterly
Security audit	Annually

Regular reviews ensure controls remain effective as firms grow and threats emerge.

Quick Summary: Cybersecurity Requirements for Law Firms

• The SRA requires firms protecting client confidentiality and managing cyber risk
• Most firms implement 8–12 core security controls
• Key protections include MFA, endpoint security, backups, and email protection
• Cyber Essentials provides a recognised baseline
• Cybersecurity is core to modern managed IT services

Example: Helping a London Law Firm Improve Cybersecurity

A 45-person London law firm reviewed cybersecurity after phishing attempts targeted its finance team.

Improvements implemented:

• multi-factor authentication across Microsoft 365
• advanced endpoint security protection
• secure cloud backup with recovery testing
• staff phishing awareness training

Within months, the firm significantly reduced security risks and achieved Cyber Essentials certification, reassuring clients.

Why London Law Firms Work With Techsperience

Techsperience provides managed IT and cybersecurity services for law firms across London and the South East, supporting practices with 20–150 employees.

The company specialises in maintaining secure, compliant technology environments through:

• legal-sector IT expertise
• Cyber Essentials and ISO27001 security alignment
• Microsoft 365 security configuration
• advanced endpoint protection and monitoring
• secure backup and disaster recovery
• quarterly strategic IT reviews (vCIO)

Combining cybersecurity expertise with legal sector knowledge helps firms reduce risk while maintaining efficient IT systems.

How Secure Is Your Law Firm Right Now?

Most law firms remain uncertain whether current cybersecurity measures fully meet SRA expectations. Gaps often only emerge after security reviews.

A brief cybersecurity assessment identifies:

• gaps in current security controls
• risks to client data and confidentiality
• areas not meeting best practice
• practical improvements strengthening protection

Book a Cybersecurity Assessment for Your Law Firm

Most assessments take 20–30 minutes, providing clear views of current cybersecurity position.

Understanding cybersecurity posture is the first step improving protection and meeting regulatory expectations.

Assessments typically review:

• current security controls
• potential vulnerabilities
• compliance gaps
• improvement recommendations

This helps firms build clear cybersecurity roadmaps while protecting client data.

There is no obligation — the goal is helping understand current position and identify potential risks.