The initiative includes an integrated L&D program developed in collaboration with AUCloud
The Australasian Legal Practice Management Association (ALPMA) has unveiled an initiative designed to battle cybercrime in what it described as an “industry first”.
The organisation collaborated with Australian cyber security provider AUCloud on the initiative, which aims to also tackle the issue of data breaches in law firms. The initiative “involves a mix of an integrated learning and development program”, said AUCloud CEO Peter Maloney.
“The latest government reporting and industry research is telling us that the Australian legal sector is under attack and currently extremely vulnerable to cyber threats.” he said. “Law firms are under attack due to the critical role they play in our society; the abundance and nature of information we trust them with, their financial responsibilities and authority to act”.
According Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) data, the legal sector is among the top three industries most targeted by cyber criminals. ALPMA’s own research revealed that over half of all firms have not updated their data security policy regularly, leaving them vulnerable to cyber attacks. Additionally, 55% of firms have not implemented a formal policy on the use of AI, despite instances of reputational damage and cyber breaches linked to legal practitioners' use of AI in the workplace.
ALPMA explained that the partnership is set to focus on delivering an annual schedule of in-person and online complimentary learning and development opportunities that are specifically geared towards strengthening the security measures of Australian law firms, particularly ALPMA members. AUCloud is also set to provide special cyber security resilience packages to members of ALPMA.
The initiative will also aid the profession in meeting its continuing professional development requirements.
“As a membership body we are continuously striving to bring value to our members and solve the many business challenges members face daily. This strategic partnership with AUCloud reflects ALPMA's commitment to elevating cyber security standards within the legal sector, offering valuable resources and insights to its members,” ALPMA CEO Emma Elliott said. “Recognising the shared responsibility to adapt to evolving cyber threats, the initiative underscores the importance of following best practices in the legal industry”.
