Begin with Internet-Facing Systems
Your internet-facing systems are the digital front door to your organisation. This is where many cyberattacks begin. Start your cybersecurity overhaul by conducting a thorough review of your network perimeter. Check that all firewalls are correctly configured to filter incoming and outgoing traffic. Disable or close any ports that are not essential to daily operations, as these can be exploited by attackers looking for vulnerabilities.
Routers and firewalls should be running the latest firmware, and default passwords must be changed. Use secure configurations across all routers and ensure wireless networks are properly encrypted. Often, simply auditing and updating these basic configurations can prevent opportunistic attacks.
Strengthen Access Controls
Access control is the backbone of cyber hygiene. Legal aid providers must take extra precautions due to the sensitivity of the data they manage. Begin by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for all administrator accounts and any remote access points. This adds an extra layer of security even if passwords are compromised.
Next, conduct a privilege review. Ensure that employees only have access to the data and systems necessary for their specific role. For example, an administrative assistant should not have access to confidential case notes or financial data unless it is essential for their job. This principle of least privilege minimises the damage that can occur if an account is compromised.
You should also create separate user accounts for administrative tasks. Shared or generic logins should be eliminated. Clear policies on account creation, modification, and deletion are vital to ensure that only current, verified users can access systems.
Protect Against Malware and Viruses
One of the most common ways that attackers infiltrate organisations is through malware—malicious software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorised access to systems. To combat this, install centrally managed antivirus or endpoint protection software across all devices in your network. A centrally managed solution allows IT administrators to monitor the health of all systems, push updates, and react to threats quickly.
Ensure that your antivirus software is kept up to date and includes behaviour-based detection capabilities to catch new, previously unidentified threats. Some antivirus solutions also provide firewall control and web filtering, which can block access to malicious websites or unsafe downloads.
Regular scans should be scheduled, and alerts must be configured so that suspicious activities are detected and acted upon promptly. While antivirus is not a silver bullet, it is a critical component of your cybersecurity defences.
Prioritise Patch Management
Unpatched software is one of the leading causes of data breaches. Cybercriminals often scan the internet for systems running outdated or vulnerable software, then exploit known weaknesses. To prevent this, make patching a regular and non-negotiable routine.
Ensure that operating systems, software applications, and third-party tools are updated weekly, or as soon as security patches are released. Use automated update tools wherever possible, especially on user endpoints where manual updates may be delayed or overlooked.
Patching should not be limited to desktops and laptops. Mobile devices, printers, and even smart office equipment should be included in your patch management strategy. Keep an inventory of all digital assets to track update status and schedule reviews to ensure nothing is missed.
Raise Staff Awareness Through Training
The human element is often the weakest link in cybersecurity. A well-configured firewall cannot protect your organisation if an employee clicks on a malicious link in a phishing email. That’s why training is just as important as technology.
Create a training programme that is short, engaging, and relevant. Avoid technical jargon and focus on real-world scenarios. Teach staff how to identify suspicious emails, the dangers of downloading unknown attachments, and why using strong passwords matters.
Make training part of your onboarding process and run refresher sessions at least quarterly. Many organisations use simulated phishing attacks to test staff awareness and reinforce good practices. Staff should also know how to report suspicious activity immediately so action can be taken before damage spreads.
Use a Recognised Framework
While there are many approaches to improving cybersecurity, starting with Cyber Essentials is both practical and strategic. The scheme offers clear, achievable controls specifically designed for UK organisations. It is recognised by government bodies and the Legal Aid Agency, making it the most relevant framework for compliance.
For organisations seeking to go beyond the basics, frameworks like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework or ISO 27001 offer more advanced structures. These can help legal aid providers mature their security posture over time. However, Cyber Essentials is often the best starting point, especially for smaller or resource-constrained organisations, because of its simplicity and clarity.
