Cybersecurity, Data Protection & Smart Risk Management for Accounting Firms

About this episode

The episode discusses the importance of cybersecurity for accounting firms and offers practical best practices to enhance data protection.

In this episode of the Accounting Insiders Podcast, host Gary DeHart, publisher of Insightful Accountant, sits down with Tony Russler, National Business Development Manager at Sharp Business Systems. The conversation focuses on the growing importance of cybersecurity for accounting firms and professional service providers. Tony shares insights from his 20+ years in technology and security, explaining how firms can protect themselves from phishing attacks, data breaches, and social engineering threats. The discussion covers practical best practices such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), password hygiene, employee security training, phishing simulations, and the importance of having a Written Information Security Plan (WISP). They also explore how cyber liability insurance requirements often overlap with IT security controls and how managed service providers can help firms stay compliant and protected. Real-world examples highlight how attackers target accounting firms for client lists and financial data, and why even small firms are at risk due to outdated systems or lack of training. The episode closes with actionable steps firms can take immediately to strengthen their…

People in this episode

Host: Gary DeHart

Guest: Tony Russler

Topics covered

• cybersecurity
• data protection
• risk management
• accounting firms
• technology
• employee training

Keywords

• cybersecurity
• data breaches
• phishing attacks
• multi-factor authentication
• employee security training
• Written Information Security Plan
• cyber liability insurance

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Sharp Business Systems, Insightful Accountant

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