If cybercriminals are akin to old-fashioned bank robbers then accounting firms are nothing short of a bank with a comically large pile of gold hidden in the safe. While accounting firms very rarely deal with physical money, the concept remains.
Accounting cybersecurity is such a major issue because of the large amounts of money and sensitive data that accounting firms possess. This is especially true during tax season when accounting firms are at their most vulnerable.
Why Cybercriminals Target Accounting Firms
So why are accounting firms such a lucrative target for cybercriminals? Here are a few key reasons.
- The first reason is that accounting firms usually deal with a lot of money. This is especially true during tax season when accounting firms are processing a large volume of transactions. Accounting cybersecurity is important because cybercriminals are often looking for ways to get their hands on the money that accounting firms deal with.
- The second reason is that accounting firms usually have a lot of sensitive data. This includes things like social security numbers, credit card numbers, and bank account numbers. This data is valuable to cybercriminals because they can use it to commit identity theft or fraud.
- The third reason is that accounting cybersecurity can be neglected. Accounting firms are often not as well protected as other businesses. They may not invest in cybersecurity because they believe that they are not a target for cybercrime. However, this lack of protection makes accounting firms an easy target for cybercriminals.
When Are They Most Vulnerable?
As mentioned before, accounting firms are most vulnerable during tax season. This is because they are processing a large volume of transactions and they often do not have the proper cybersecurity measures in place. Cybercriminals know that accounting firms are vulnerable during tax season and they often take advantage of this by targeting accounting firms during this time.
Accounting Cybersecurity Best Practices to Keep You Safe
There are a few accounting cybersecurity best practices that you can follow to keep your accounting firm safe from cybercrime.
Invest in Cybersecurity
The first best practice is to invest in cybersecurity. This includes things like firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems. By investing in cybersecurity, you can make it more difficult for cybercriminals to target your accounting firm.
Educate Employees
The second best practice is to educate your employees about cybersecurity. This includes things like teaching them how to identify phishing emails and how to safely browse the internet. By educating your employees, you can make it more difficult for cybercriminals to access your accounting firm’s data.
Create a Security Policy
A security policy should include things like what data you can collect, how you can collect it, and how you will protect it. By creating a security policy, you can make it more difficult for cybercriminals to attack your firm.
Solutions in Data is the Best Partner for Your Accounting Firm
Solutions in Data is the best partner for your accounting firm because we understand the challenges that you face. We have a team of experts who are familiar with the accounting industry and we know how to keep your accounting firm safe from cybercrime. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you protect your accounting firm from cybercrime.
