By Julie Bays, OBA Practice Management Advisor

Lawyers deal with confidential data which requires strong security measures, particularly when away from the office. Employing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential to protect client’s confidential information while working remotely or in public spaces such as coffee shops, airports, and hotels.

Public Wi-Fi networks are particularly vulnerable to security breaches. A VPN encrypts the internet connection, ensuring that all transmitted data remains secure and inaccessible to potential eavesdroppers. Moreover, it allows safe access to the firm’s servers and sensitive information, maintaining the integrity of client-lawyer confidentiality.

Beyond security, VPNs help bypass geographical restrictions and access resources that might be blocked in certain regions, ensuring lawyers have the information they need, no matter where they are.

Using a VPN is not just a good practice—it’s a vital part of legal practice security. Here is an article that explains how to use and set up a VPN, and if you use Microsoft Edge as your browser, they recently introduced a free VPN.