If you manage a law firm, there’s a new cyber risk you need to know about — and it’s already inside your Office365 environment.
Microsoft has quietly enabled a setting that allows users to sign into personal OneDrive accounts on work devices. That means your staff can now sync personal files — holiday photos, shopping lists, even old CVs — right alongside confidential client data.
This isn’t just a tech issue. It’s a business risk. And it’s one that could cost your firm dearly.
The Real-World Risks of OneDrive Sync
Let’s break it down in plain terms. Here’s what this change means for your firm:
🔓 1. Sensitive Data Could Walk Out the Door
Personal OneDrive accounts don’t have the same security controls as your corporate systems. If a staff member uploads client files to their personal cloud — even by accident — that data is now outside your control. That’s a serious breach of your duty of confidentiality.
📁 2. File Chaos = Lost Time and Mistakes
Mixing personal and professional files leads to confusion. Staff waste time searching for documents. Worse, they could send the wrong file to the wrong person. In a legal setting, that’s not just embarrassing — it’s potentially negligent.
💥 3. Storage Overload Slows Everyone Down
When personal files flood your firm’s storage, it clogs up systems and slows down workflows. That means delays, frustration, and lost productivity — all of which hit your bottom line.
Why This Matters for Law Firms
Law firms are prime targets for cyber threats. You hold sensitive client data, financial records, and legal strategies — all of which are goldmines for cybercriminals.
Allowing personal OneDrive sync creates a backdoor into your systems. It bypasses your Office365 cyber security policies and opens the door to data leaks, ransomware, and compliance failures.
And here’s the kicker: most firms don’t even know this setting is enabled.
What You Can Do Today
You don’t need to be technical to take action. Here’s how to protect your firm:
✅ 1. Block Personal OneDrive Sync
Ask your IT provider to disable personal OneDrive access on all work devices. This is a simple policy change that closes the door on risk.
✅ 2. Update Your IT Policies
Make it clear that personal cloud storage is not allowed on company devices. Put it in writing and make sure everyone understands the rules.
✅ 3. Educate Your Team
Most staff don’t realise the risks. A short training session or internal memo can go a long way in preventing accidental data breaches.
The Outcome: Peace of Mind and Professionalism
By taking these steps, you’re not just protecting data — you’re protecting your reputation, your clients, and your business.
You’ll have:
- Clear separation between personal and professional data
- Stronger Office365 cyber security
- A more efficient, compliant, and confident team
Final Thought
This isn’t about scaring you. It’s about awareness. OneDrive Sync might seem like a small setting — but for law firms, it’s a big risk.
Don’t wait for a breach to find out the hard way. Take control now.
Need help reviewing your Office365 setup or locking down OneDrive Sync?
We specialise in Law Firm Cyber Security and can help you stay compliant, secure, and stress-free.
