Email scanning and other security tools

04/07/2025 09:33:41

In our latest cyber security blog, Paul Delahunty breaks down essential technical tools to protect your firm and clients.

As legal professionals, you are entrusted with highly sensitive client information every day. From personal data and financial records to confidential contracts and litigation strategy, the information handled by law firms is both privileged and valuable – and increasingly a target for cybercriminals.

Yet many firms, particularly practices with fewer resources, may rely on outdated or insufficient digital protections. In today’s climate, that’s a risk no solicitor can afford to take.

The rising threat

Law firms are high-value targets for cyber criminals. A successful attack can grant access to client records, bank details, case files, and even funds held in escrow. The threat landscape includes:

  • phishing emails posing as clients, Revenue, other law firms, etc.
  • ransomware attacks encrypting your case management system
  • spoofed emails that trick conveyancers into transferring funds to fraudsters
  • insider threats and poor access control leading to data leaks.

Numerous reports have repeatedly warned that cybercrime is one of the most significant threats to legal practices.

What is email scanning and why does it matter?

Email scanning is a cyber security service that automatically analyses incoming and outgoing emails to detect and block some of the most common threats, including:

  • viruses,
  • phishing links,
  • emailers impersonating a client,
  • suspicious attachments, and
  • spam emails

Advanced email scanning uses AI-powered threat detection and integrates with platforms such as Microsoft 365 or Gmail. It can also include outbound email monitoring to prevent sensitive information from being sent to the wrong recipient – a common cause of data protection breaches. Email scanning is the front-line defence against threats that disguise themselves as everyday communication.

Beyond email: other cyber security tools

Protecting your firm’s inbox is only part of the picture, however. A more comprehensive cyber security strategy should also evaluate and consider the following tools:


Adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification (for example, through a code sent by text) in addition to a password. This is essential for cloud-based email, CMS platforms, and client portals.


Modern antivirus software that protects laptops, desktops, and mobile devices from malware, ransomware, and data theft – this is especially critical for remote or hybrid teams.


Daily, encrypted, immutable and off-site backups ensure you can recover from a breach, ransomware attack or hardware failure without losing client data or breaching confidentiality obligations.


Email encryption ensures that sensitive documents (such as contracts or ID scans) sent via email are protected in transit, reducing the risk of interception or unauthorised access. Devices should also be encrypted to ensure that data isn’t compromised in the event of a lost or stolen device.


Phishing attacks often succeed because someone clicks a link or opens a suspicious attachment. Regular training helps staff recognise and report threats early.

Many cyber insurance policies require minimum security standards – including email scanning, firewalls, and MFA. Failure to meet these can invalidate your coverage.


All these cyber security tools and processes can seem a little bit daunting. And that’s OK. After all, you’re a legal expert, not a cyber security expert. So rather than trying to do it all yourself, a sensible option may be to source a partner who can advise on, and implement, appropriate tools and processes for your practice.

If you choose to go down this route, there are a few questions that you should consider:

  • Are their tools compatible with your case management and email systems?
  • Can they help with GDPR compliance and cyber insurance audits?
  • Do they offer support in case of a breach?
  • Can they provide regular risk assessments and staff training?

Firms of all sizes – from sole practitioners to mid-sized partnerships – should be able to access these services at a reasonable cost, especially when weighed against the risk of a cyber incident.

Cyber threats will only become more sophisticated, and regulators will continue to expect more from firms in terms of data protection.

If you haven’t already, now is the time to:

  • review your current IT and email security setup;
  • ensure email scanning and endpoint protection are in place;
  • schedule cyber security awareness training for your team; and
  • consider your long-term needs to keep on top of the latest developments.

Cyber security isn’t just an IT issue – it’s a matter of professional integrity and legal compliance. Email scanning, encryption, secure backups, and staff training aren’t luxuries – they’re essential safeguards that protect your clients, your practice, and your reputation. Start with email scanning. Build from there. And treat cyber security not as a one-off fix, but as an ongoing professional commitment.

Law Society services and CPD

Reduce your cybersecurity risk through information and resources designed for the profession including other practical tips, a comprehensive Library guide and an online, on-demand CPD course. Access at the link below:

Paul Delahunty is Chief Information Security Officer at Stryve, a leading Irish multi-cloud and cybersecurity company and ICTTF Cyber Security Company of the Year 2022. Paul is CIO and IT Leaders Security Leader of the Year 2023 and 2024, and is the Tech Excellence Awards CIO of the Year 2024.