If you're running a consulting firm, financial advisory practice, or creative agency, you know trust is everything. Clients count on you to deliver results—and to protect their sensitive information along the way.
But here’s the truth: many small professional services firms are one accidental click away from a serious data breach.
So… is your client data actually secure?
Here’s how to find out—and what to do about it.
1. Start with the Basics: Are You Using MFA?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is one of the easiest, most effective ways to secure accounts—but many small businesses still skip it.
If your email, file storage, or financial platforms only require a password to log in, you’re vulnerable.
Fix it: Turn on MFA everywhere. Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, QuickBooks—all of it.
2. How Are You Sharing Files?
Are you sending documents with client data via email attachments?Using shared Google Drive folders with “anyone with the link” access?
Those might be convenient—but they’re not secure.
Fix it: Use encrypted, permission-based file sharing. Bonus points if links auto-expire and require sign-in.
3. Are You Storing Client Info on Local Devices?
If your team saves client data directly on laptops or desktops—especially if those devices aren’t monitored—you’re asking for trouble.
Fix it: Use cloud storage with version control and offsite backups. Make sure all endpoints are secured and managed.
4. Do You Train Your Team on Phishing and Social Engineering?
The #1 cause of small business breaches? Human error. All it takes is one person clicking the wrong link or replying to a spoofed email.
Fix it: Implement regular security awareness training and phishing simulations. Bonus: it satisfies some compliance requirements too.
5. Are You Compliant with Industry Standards?
Depending on your industry, you may need to comply with data protection standards like:
- FINRA or SEC guidelines (for advisors)
- HIPAA (for those handling health-related data)
- FTC Safeguards Rule (for finance/insurance)
- General cyber liability insurance requirements
Fix it: Perform a tech risk audit. Stamm Tech can help assess your environment and close gaps before compliance becomes an issue.
Bonus Check: Would You Know If You Were Breached?
Many small firms don’t have monitoring tools in place—meaning they wouldn’t even know if someone was poking around their systems.
Fix it: Use 24/7 threat detection, log monitoring, and alerts. Even basic tools can help spot and stop threats early.
Bottom Line: Security Isn’t Just for Big Firms
Hackers and data thieves aren’t targeting Fortune 500 companies—they’re going after businesses just like yours.
That’s why smart professional service firms are choosing proactive, right-sized security from trusted local IT partners like Stamm Tech.
Let’s talk about protecting your client data—before it becomes a problem.