With the constant increase of cyber threats, strict data protection laws, and growing client expectations, law firms must treat communication security as a core professional obligation. Whether advising on mergers and acquisitions, handling sensitive litigation, or communicating with high profile clients, legal professionals are routinely exchanging highly confidential information.
Ensuring the privacy and integrity of these communications is not only a matter of client trust but a requirement of regulatory compliance and professional standards. Law firms who provide the best client duty of care and professionalism offer secure messaging solutions that protect sensitive information, maintain control over data, and demonstrate compliance at every stage.
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Legal professionals operate in one of the most data sensitive industries in the world. From client documents and contract drafts to privileged discussions and internal strategy notes, a single breach could result in severe reputational and financial consequences.
Despite this, many firms still rely on consumer messaging apps or vulnerable enterprise platforms for day to day communication. While these may offer convenience, they present significant weaknesses. Law firms are frequent targets of phishing, impersonation scams, and interception attacks. A growing number of cases highlight how attackers exploit unsecured communication channels to gain access to legal data and impersonate solicitors, putting both clients and firms at risk.
Furthermore, regulatory bodies and professional indemnity insurers increasingly expect firms to have clear policies and secure systems in place for managing digital communications.
Apps such as WhatsApp, iMessage, and Signal are widely used by legal professionals, often with the intention of working efficiently or staying connected with clients. However, these tools were never built for legal compliance or data governance.
Key issues include:
No central oversight
There is no way for firm administrators to retain or manage the messages being sent. This undermines record keeping obligations and increases exposure during legal disputes or audits.
Unclear data jurisdiction
Messages and documents are stored on third party servers, often in unknown or foreign jurisdictions, which may conflict with data protection requirements.
Lack of client confidence
Clients expect their information to be protected with the highest levels of care. Using consumer grade tools may suggest a lack of professional diligence.
No support for internal investigations or supervision
If misconduct or errors occur, firms may find themselves unable to trace communications or prove accountability.
Simply put, these apps were not designed for law firm use. Relying on them puts client confidentiality and regulatory compliance at serious risk.
The solution lies in secure communication platforms purpose built for regulated professions. One such provider is Salt Communications, whose technology is trusted by law firms, barristers, corporate legal teams, and national security bodies around the world.
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Large firms require total control over who can access the system, how long messages are retained, and how data is secured. Whether discussing case strategy, handling sensitive negotiations, or collaborating with external counsel, lawyers can communicate freely knowing that the platform meets the highest security standards and aligns with professional obligations.
Salt offers integrations with leading DMS systems (such as iManage) to ensure that matter records are kept up-to-date with advice being logged securely from the Salt app.
Salt Communications ensures legal professionals can communicate with speed and clarity, without compromising confidentiality or compliance.
Sync NI's Summer 2025 magazine celebrates women in tech across Ireland as we continue to encourage more women to enter the thriving sector and address the current gender imbalance. Read the Summer 2025 Sync NI Magazine online for free here.
