Whilst the Online Safety Act might initially only seem to be aimed at social media and big tech platforms, it has important knock-on effects for UK law firms, especially when it comes to data protection, client trust, and your law firm’s reputation.
What is the Online Safety Act?
In essence, the Online Safety Act aims to make online platforms safer. It introduces a statutory duty of care for companies to protect their users from illegal or harmful content. The law requires platforms to remove harmful materials and requires platforms to be totally transparent about their policies.
Fines for companies that fail to comply with the Online Safety Act can reach up to £18 million, or 10% of the company’s global turnover. In some cases, senior managers could even face criminal liability. Whilst law firms are by no means the primary target here, this signals a bigger shift in how organisations are expected to manage digital risk.
Links to Data Protection
The Online Safety Act highlights that organisations are responsible not just for their own systems, but for the digital environments they operate in. So, if your firm uses client portals, collaboration tools, or communication platforms that connect multiple users, it’s worth checking how these align with best practice standards. In particular, regulators and clients increasingly expect firms to show they are taking digital safety seriously, which overlaps with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
This is also a reminder that cybercrime doesn’t respect boundaries. By thinking about online safety alongside data protection, law firms can strengthen their approach to cybersecurity and reduce the risk of breaches that could damage the trust their clients bestow in them and the reputation they have worked to build.
Client Trust and Reputation
Law firms are trusted with some of their clients’ most sensitive information imaginable. From a data breach to a poorly managed online system, putting a foot wrong can significantly shake that trust, even through omission or negligence.
Law firms with seemingly outdated cyber policies are at risk of seeming careless. Staying on top of developments like this shows your firm is forward-thinking, responsible, and truly trustworthy.
Proactive Steps for Law Firms
Check Your Digital Tools
Review all of the digital tools your law firm uses including client portals, extranets, and collaborative platforms to ensure they are secure, user-friendly, and compliant with the current standards. Following your initial check, regular audits can help to identify any vulnerabilities, prevent breaches, and maintain a seamless experience for clients while supporting safe and efficient digital interactions.
Vet Your Suppliers
Many law firms rely on third-party technology providers. Assess these suppliers carefully to ensure they meet high standards for online safety, data protection, and cybersecurity. Request documentation, review their policies, and monitor ongoing compliance. Strong supplier management reduces your risk and ensures your clients’ information remains protected across all services.
Update Policies and Train Staff
Your law firm’s internal policies should reflect the latest best practice in digital safety and regulatory compliance. Providing your staff with regular training on data protection, cyber threats, and safe technology use will produce a well-informed team who will be better equipped to identify any risks early and handle sensitive client information responsibly, safeguarding your firm’s reputation.
Keep Clients in the Loop
Transparency with clients is key. Consider informing them that your law firm is aware of the Online Safety Act and is actively taking steps to protect your clients’ data. Clear communication builds trust, reassures clients about digital security measures, and demonstrates your commitment to maintaining high standards of professional care.
