The Top 10 Cybersecurity Items for Court Reporters
As court reporters continue to work in increasingly digital environments, safeguarding your client data isn’t just good practice. it’s an ethical and legal necessity. Here are the Top 10 cybersecurity items every Court Reporter should have on their radar.
Encrypted Storage Devices
Ensure your external drives and USBs use hardware-level encryption. Sensitive transcripts or exhibits should never reside on unprotected media.
Secure Cloud Backup
Adopt a Canadian-hosted, end-to-end encrypted cloud backup plan. This helps you meet PIPEDA requirements while maintaining accessibility and redundancy.
Strong Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Whether logging in to your digital transcript repository or billing platform, MFA drastically reduces the chance of account compromise.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A reliable VPN encrypts internet traffic, especially when working from courthouses, client offices, or public Wi-Fi networks.
Device Management Policy
Use mobile device management (MDM) software if you handle transcripts on phones or tablets. This enables tracking and remote wiping in case of loss or theft.
Updated Antivirus & EDR Tools
Move beyond basic antivirus. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools monitor unusual activity and respond in real time.
Phishing Awareness Training
Emails remain the top attack vector. Regular awareness training, especially around spear-phishing, can prevent costly data breaches.
Secure File Transfer Practices
Avoid email attachments for sensitive documents. Instead, use encrypted transfer portals or password-protected links with expiry settings.
Incident Response Plan
Every court reporter should know exactly what to do in the event of a data breach or ransomware attempt. A clear plan saves time, money, and reputation.
Cyber Liability Insurance
Even the most careful professionals can face breaches. Having coverage can mitigate legal and financial risks tied to data exposure or downtime.