At 1:30 am on June 24, 2021, residents of the Champlain Towers in Surfside, Florida, woke to a deafening crash. When they looked outside, residents saw the complex's South Tower had partially collapsed. It appeared as if the building had disappeared into thin air (source 1). Ninety-eight people died in the tower collapse, and hundreds more were temporarily homeless. The investigation into the collapse is entering its third year, and a final report isn’t expected until late in 2024. The cause of the collapse remains unknown (source 1).

Gone are the days when antivirus software was enough to protect businesses from cyber threats and malware attacks. Modern cybercrime is constantly evolving to produce more complicated, stealthy attacks that require companies to employ proactive security solutions. In this new landscape, endpoints are often the most common target with 81% of companies reporting malware attacks on business devices.1 Fortunately, endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions are available to provide complete visibility of all endpoint devices and activities, which is vital to discovering adverse incidents with the potential to cause data loss, system intrusions, or malware attacks (source 1).

Cyber risks are skyrocketing. A recent IBM breach report revealed that 83% of organizations experienced more than one data breach in 2022. The severity of the situation continues to be evident in 2023 with the public disclosure of at least 310 cyber incidents in the first quarter of the year alone.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by law firms has recently become a hot topic of discussion. Definitive answers regarding the appropriateness of its use remain elusive. While technology evolves quickly and the conversation may change over time, it’s important to consider the potential issues around the use of generative AI. Currently, discussion with various law firms indicate that many firms are working to develop internal policies regarding the use of AI. Some have shared that they’re trying to get out ahead of the issue even as many lawyers are likely already utilizing AI. If so, policies are likely needed in relatively short order.

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.