In today’s digital first legal landscape, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT concern, it’s a business-critical priority. A recent Sentrian webinar as part of Clio's 'Legal AI Summit', dived deep into the evolving threat landscape, highlighting how artificial intelligence is reshaping the tactics of cybercriminals. With cybercrime projected to reach $10.5 trillion USD globally, and the Australian legal sector seeing a 21% increase in targeted attacks, the stakes have never been higher. Legal professionals, entrusted with sensitive client data, must now contend with increasingly sophisticated threats from AI-generated phishing emails to deepfake impersonations and voice cloning.
The session explored how generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are being weaponized to create convincing scams that bypass traditional security filters. Real world examples including fabricated email chains used to trick finance teams, and ransomware attacks that not only encrypt data but also exfiltrate it for double extortion. Ultimately, mature security policies and continuous user education are no longer optional, they’re essential. Firms also need to be wary to the dangers of prompt injection, where hidden instructions embedded in documents or chat prompts can manipulate AI tools into producing misleading or malicious outputs.
Beyond external threats, firms must turn the spotlight inward, addressing the risks posed by poor data governance and shadow IT practices. Legal firms often struggle to track where sensitive data lives, who has access to it, and how it’s being used. Without clear governance, outdated access controls and unsanctioned apps can lead to compliance failures and reputational damage. The answer to these concerns lay in a practical framework for data protection; knowing your data, applying appropriate controls, preventing data loss, and managing data lifecycle effectively.
There are plenty of real-world case studies that underscore the consequence of neglecting governance. From Samsung’s accidental IP leak via ChatGPT to AI-generated hallucinations used in court proceedings, the message is clear: responsible AI use and strong governance go hand in hand. Sentrian would advocate for establishing dedicated governance teams, assigning data champions, and partnering with trusted providers like Sentrian to implement scalable, secure solutions.
To help firms navigate these challenges, Sentrian offers a suite of tailored solutions designed to strengthen cybersecurity and data governance. Their Data Governance as a Service provides visibility and control over sensitive information within Microsoft 365, helping firms prevent accidental oversharing and ensure compliance. Sentrian also supports firms in achieving SMB1001 certification, a maturity model that validates strong security foundations. For those looking to adopt AI responsibly, Sentrian’s Copilot Quick Start program enables rapid, secure deployment of Microsoft’s AI assistant, ensuring teams are equipped to use the technology effectively and safely.
Cybersecurity and governance are not one-time investments; they require ongoing vigilance, education, and adaptation. With the right tools, partners, and mindset, legal professionals can turn these challenges into opportunities for resilience and leadership in the digital age. Sentrian stands ready to support that journey, offering expertise and solutions that empower firms to protect what matters most.
