For the Defense - Vol. 7, Issue 4 - 39

11. Purchase a laptop.
Security Tips
In some cases, a tablet with a keyboard will be enough. In other
cases, it will not, and you will want a laptop. It is not generally
necessary to purchase an expensive laptop. Laptops under $1000
are more than enough for most lawyers.
* Make certain to secure the laptop with a proper
password.
* Encrypt the hard drive.
* Add software to help you find the laptop if it is lost and
that will allow you to wipe it if it cannot be found.14
12. Get a scanner.
All files should be scanned and put into your document system as
soon as possible. A desktop scanner such as the ScanSnap is perfect
for smaller jobs. If your practice requires large amounts of scanning,
consider a larger scanner.
13. Get a microcut shredder.
Microcut shredders make confetti out of documents. Make sure
you shred any confidential documents. The size and capacity of your
shredder depends on how many pages you tend to need to shred
at a time. Make sure the shredder can destroy CDs and DVDs as well
as paper.
Organizational Tip: Consider Google Home,
Apple HomePod, or Amazon Alexa to help you
stay organized.
Both Google Home and Alexa can be connected
to your calendar. You can easily set alarms or
ask your device what is on your schedule for
the day. These devices will then announce your
appointment (if you have a reminder turned
on). Be aware of potential security issues. For
example, turn the mic off when you are having
confidential conversations.
Security Tip #1: Do not use public computers.
Public computers such as those in coffee shops or hotels
are not secure. They almost always have malware
on them. This malware will steal all usernames and
passwords you type into the computer.
Security Tip #2: Use malware protection on all devices.
There are many options for malware protection. You
can purchase one suite and use it on your computer(s),
phone(s), and tablet(s). Some IT professionals will
discourage use of malware protection on servers. This
is an outdated view. Your servers need protection. Even
apple devices need malware protection these days.
Be certain to keep the malware software up to date.
Automatic updates are your best choice.
Security Tip #3: Keep your computer's operating system
up to date.
Either use automatic updates or keep a schedule.
Security Tip #4: Have an alarm system at home.
If you keep files at home, you must keep them secure.
Wireless alarm system that calls you instead of an alarm
company are available and inexpensive. They can be
easily installed and do not require you to run any wires.
Use removable two-way Velcro stickers and you do not
need to put holes in your walls or doors.
Security Tip #5: Encrypt USB drives and external hard
drives.
Anything that can easily " walk away " should be
encrypted. Many USB drives and external hard drives
can be purchased already encrypted. There is also
software available for easy encryption of these devices.
14. A word about texting with clients.
If you text with your clients, you must preserve the texts. There
are myriad applications which allow you to download texts and
place them into your client's file. Keep in mind that texting is not a
particularly secure form of communication.
The nature of an attorney's practice makes it easy to work from
anywhere if you keep our ethical obligations in mind. Remember,
technology is not one size fits all. Choose what is right for your
specific clients based on the needs of your firm. Hopefully, you will
find these recommendations helpful in providing a secure space, no
matter where you or your employees happen to be working.
Vol. 7, Issue 4 l For The Defense 39
For the Defense - Vol. 7, Issue 4

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of For the Defense - Vol. 7, Issue 4
