Article Introduction
Email is the backbone of modern business communication, and in the legal sector, it plays an even more critical role. Law firms use email daily to send:
- Contracts
- Invoices
- Case updates
- Confidential client information
It’s a tool that legal professionals rely on to keep operations running smoothly.
However, this constant use also makes email one of the most attractive entry points for cybercriminals. For many cyberattacks, the inbox acts as the front door into your law firm’s systems.
The problem is that not every legal practice fully understands how easily that door can be forced open. While firewalls, antivirus software and cloud security solutions are essential, the inbox itself is often the quickest and most vulnerable route in.
To stay ahead of attackers, law firms must understand the techniques hackers use and how they exploit trust, urgency and routine communication. In this article, we explore four of the most common email-based attack tactics targeting the law industry and what your firm can do to reduce its risk.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing remains one of the most widespread and damaging email threats facing law firms today. It exploits trust, urgency and routine communication to trick legal professionals into compromising sensitive information or credentials.
How it works:
- Attackers impersonate trusted contacts such as clients, opposing counsel, court clerks or senior partners
- Emails often contain urgent requests, such as clicking a link, downloading a file or confirming login details
- Messages may appear highly convincing, using familiar language, branding or even previous email threads
Risks for law firms:
- Unauthorised fund transfers to fraudulent accounts
- Exposure of confidential client data and case files
- Breach of internal systems and legal document repositories
Prevention measures:
- Conduct regular phishing awareness training for all staff
- Use intelligent email filtering tools that flag suspicious messages
- Encourage a “pause and verify” culture before responding to urgent requests
- Implement secure email gateways and sandboxing for unknown links
- For more practical advice, see Extech Cloud’s top tips for effective email security
Phishing attacks are becoming more sophisticated, often targeting specific individuals within a firm. For example, a finance manager may receive an email that appears to be from a managing partner requesting an urgent payment. Without proper verification, this can lead to significant financial loss.
Session Hijacking
Session hijacking is a stealthy tactic that allows cybercriminals to take control of active user sessions, often without the victim realising anything is wrong. This method is particularly dangerous for law firms handling sensitive communications and client data.
How it works:
- Hackers intercept session tokens used to keep users logged into web applications
- Once hijacked, attackers can impersonate the user and access their email, cloud storage or case management systems
- No password is required, making detection more difficult
Risks for law firms:
- Reading or redirecting confidential communications
- Issuing fraudulent instructions to clients or colleagues
- Accessing privileged legal documents and case notes
- Manipulating or deleting evidence and records
Prevention measures:
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all systems
- Monitor login activity for unusual behaviour or geographic anomalies
- Use secure browsing practices and avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive work
- Regularly update software and browsers to patch vulnerabilities
Session hijacking is especially dangerous in remote or hybrid working environments, where solicitors and legal assistants may access systems from various locations. Firms must ensure that remote access is secure and monitored.
Malicious Attachments
Malicious attachments are a common method used by attackers to deliver malware directly into a law firm’s systems. Given the volume of documents exchanged in legal work, this threat is especially relevant and often underestimated.
How it works:
- Malware is embedded in seemingly legitimate files such as PDFs, Word documents or scanned images
- One click can install ransomware, spyware or backdoor software
- The malware may remain dormant before activating, making it harder to trace
Risks for law firms:
- System lockdowns and ransom demands
- Theft of sensitive data and client records
- Disruption of operations and loss of access to case files
- Breach of compliance with data protection regulations
Prevention measures:
- Use advanced email filtering to scan attachments for hidden threats
- Train staff to be cautious with unexpected or unsolicited files
- Maintain strong backup protocols and disaster recovery plans
- Implement endpoint protection and file sandboxing
A typical scenario might involve a legal assistant opening a file labelled “Client Agreement” from what appears to be a known contact. Instead, the file installs malware that spreads across the firm’s network, encrypting files and demanding payment.
Email Spoofing
Email spoofing is a deceptive tactic where attackers forge sender addresses to appear as trusted sources. In the legal sector, this can lead to serious financial and reputational consequences, especially when payments or sensitive data are involved.
How it works:
- Attackers manipulate the “From” field in an email to impersonate a barrister, client or supplier
- The email may request urgent action, such as transferring funds or sharing confidential documents
- Spoofed emails often bypass basic spam filters and appear legitimate
Risks for law firms:
- Financial fraud and unauthorised payments
- Loss of client trust and professional credibility
- Exposure of privileged communications and legal strategies
Prevention measures:
- Implement DMARC, SPF and DKIM protocols to authenticate email sources
- Verify unusual requests via phone or secondary communication channels
- Educate staff on recognising spoofed emails and reporting them
- Use secure email platforms with built-in sender verification
Spoofing attacks often target accounts departments or junior staff who may not feel confident questioning a request from someone who appears to be a senior figure. Building a culture of verification is key to preventing these attacks.
Why Awareness Is Critical in the Law Industry
Email threats rely on human error. Even with strong security systems, one careless click or rushed decision can compromise an entire law firm. The legal sector is particularly vulnerable due to the high value of its data and the urgency often associated with legal communications.
Key actions for law firms:
- Foster a culture of cautious communication and verification
- Provide regular cybersecurity training tailored to legal workflows
- Deploy layered security solutions that combine technology and human awareness
- Review and update security policies in line with evolving threats
Small and mid-sized law practices are especially at risk, as they may lack dedicated IT teams or enterprise-grade security infrastructure. However, with the right support and awareness, even smaller firms can build strong defences against email-based threats.
Protect Your Law Firm with Extech Cloud
Looking to strengthen your law firm’s email security and protect sensitive client data? Extech Cloud offers tailored IT and cybersecurity solutions designed specifically for the legal sector. From secure cloud infrastructure and advanced threat protection to compliance support and staff training, we help law firms stay resilient, efficient and secure.
Contact Extech Cloud today to find out how we can support your legal practice and help you stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.
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