Law firms handle a huge amount of sensitive client data – from legal documents to financial records. This makes them a prime target for cybercriminals. Unfortunately, passwords alone aren’t enough to keep this information safe from hackers who use phishing scams and brute-force attacks to break into accounts.
Research conducted by Google indicated that 86% of data breaches involve stolen credentials. That’s why implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) is crucial. It adds an extra step when logging in, like entering a one-time code sent to your phone. This makes it much harder for cybercriminals to get in, even if they steal a password.
While SMS and email 2FA are convenient, using an authenticator app on a separate device is by far the safest option. Most mobile phones today come with built-in security features, such as password protection, biometrics (face or thumb recognition) or other authentication methods. This ensures that even if someone intercepts an SMS or email, they will still need access to your phone to retrieve the code, adding an extra layer of security.
Why should your law firm start using 2FA today?
1. Stronger protection against unauthorised access
Hackers constantly seek ways to steal login credentials. If they get their hands on a password, they can access your firm’s systems, confidential files and client data.
2FA stops them in their tracks. Even if someone has a password, they still need a second verification – like a code sent to your phone – to log in. That extra step makes a massive difference in keeping your accounts safe.
2. Reducing the risk of data breaches
A data breach isn’t just a technical issue – it’s a business nightmare. It can lead to financial losses, legal consequences and irreversible reputational damage. Clients trust their lawyers to keep their information confidential and a security breach can break that trust.
2FA minimises the risk of unauthorised access, even if someone’s login credentials are compromised. That extra security step helps keep client data safe and your firm’s reputation intact.
3. Compliance with legal and ethical standards
Many legal industry regulations require firms to take strong security measures to protect client data. Implementing 2FA is one of the simplest ways to meet compliance requirements and avoid penalties.
More importantly, it shows clients that your firm takes security seriously. You’re not just meeting the minimum standards – you’re proactively safeguarding their information.
4. Maintaining client trust and reputation
Clients expect law firms to protect their personal and legal information. A security breach can seriously damage their trust. They want to know their sensitive documents are in safe hands.
By using 2FA, you’re taking a proactive approach to security. It reassures clients that you’re doing everything possible to protect their data, which strengthens trust and boosts your firm’s credibility.
5. Easy to set up, simple to use
Some law firms worry that adding extra security measures will slow things down or complicate workflows. But modern 2FA solutions are quick to set up and easy to use.
For example, enabling 2FA in Smokeball is straightforward:
- Log in to Smokeball and open Settings.
- Go to Staff & Users, select your profile and click Set up in the Security section.
- Enter your phone number and verify it with a code sent via SMS.
- Link an authentication app (such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator) for an added layer of protection.
- Use the authenticator app to verify your identity each time you log in.
Once 2FA is turned on, logging in takes just a few extra seconds. That small step delivers huge security benefits.
Securing your law firm with 2FA
Law firms are prime targets for cybercriminals and relying on passwords alone isn’t enough to keep client data safe. 2FA is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent unauthorised access, reduce the risk of data breaches and build trust with clients.
If you haven’t set up 2FA yet, now is the time. Enable 2FA in Smokeball today to protect your firm and your clients from cyber threats. Want to learn more about keeping your firm secure? Check out our guide to law firm data security and see how Smokeball’s practice management software helps law firms stay protected and efficient.
Click here to read the guide on setting up 2FA in Smokeball.
