Technology impacts every aspect of our lives. From social media to biometrics or artificial intelligence, the world is changing at an astounding rate. Generally, technology makes life easier. It creates efficiency and enhances the ability to connect with others. However, technology also generates new risks, especially when companies deploy technology without fully considering the possible consequences, disadvantages, or how it may interact with the law.

When it comes to cyber and professional liability exposures, law firms can’t afford to assume that a professional liability policy is enough to cover all the bases. It’s important to utilize the right coverage needed to address different areas of risk. However, despite growing cyberattacks, many law firms still don’t carry cyber insurance or wrongly assume that their first line of defense against cyber and phishing losses is their Lawyers Professional Liability (LPL) policy.

Ransomware garnered many of the cybercrime headlines in 2021 and 2022. Insurance carriers honed in on its devastating impacts, inspiring many insureds to put proper controls in place to help fend off such attacks. Research indicates that ransomware attacks have declined significantly over the past 12 months compared to 2021, and fewer companies are now paying ransoms. A 2022 survey of 300 U.S.-based information technology (IT) decision-makers regarding the impact of ransomware attacks on their organizations found that 25% of companies were victims of ransomware attacks over the past 12 months, a 61% decline from the previous 12-month period (source 3).

The REDY Index leverages CRC Group’s collection of actionable data – the wholesale industry’s largest. It provides critical pricing analysis monthly, giving you a snapshot of the marketplace. The REDY Index generates instant intelligence on pricing trends by industry or coverage, enabling our retail partners to set accurate data-driven expectations with their clients. Removing the guesswork empowers CRC team members to negotiate competitively, consistently producing better outcomes, better deliverables, and better results.

Cybercriminals are waging a constant virtual battle to steal or ransom money and valuable information. Now, insurers are worried about the growing threat that actual war may spill over into cyberspace due to the conflict in Ukraine and rising geopolitical tensions worldwide (source 1). To combat the potential for catastrophic losses arising from cyber war and terrorism, Lloyds and other major insurers are deploying exclusions starting in 2023 for state-sponsored and widespread attacks. These exclusions add more uncertainty for insureds even as cyber policies evolve to address the constantly changing threat landscape. It’s crucial for retail agents and insureds to understand how these new exclusions may affect their cyber coverage and exposures. A wholesale broker with deep expertise in cyber coverage and strong carrier relationships can help guide retailers and their clients through potentially confusing policy choices to build the optimal cyber program.