Top Business & Cybersecurity Concerns for CPAs in 2023

Cybersecurity Impact on CPA Firms

Cybersecurity is a critical issue for businesses and organizations of all sizes and industries, and the accounting profession is no exception. In today’s digital age, sensitive financial data and information are increasingly at risk of being compromised by cybercriminals who seek to steal valuable data, commit fraud, or cause disruption to business operations.

As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), you are entrusted with sensitive financial information and play a crucial role in protecting your clients’ data from cyber threats. By implementing effective cybersecurity measures, you cannot only safeguard your clients’ financial data but also protect your firm’s reputation and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

From phishing attacks and ransomware to insider threats and cloud security, the cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, and CPAs must stay informed about the latest threats and best practices to minimize the risk of a data breach or cyber attack.

In this increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is not just an IT issue but a business-critical concern that requires the attention of all stakeholders, including CPAs. By taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity, you can build trust with your clients, protect their sensitive financial data, and ensure the continued success of your accounting practice.

Top Business Concerns for CPAs

There are several concerns that Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) may face in their work, including:

1. Cybersecurity: With the increasing use of digital technology in accounting, cybersecurity has become a top concern for CPAs. Cyber attacks can compromise the security of sensitive financial data and information, leading to significant reputational and financial damage.
2. Compliance with Regulations: CPAs must adhere to various regulations and standards, such as the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax code, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and legal action.
3. Ethical Issues: CPAs are expected to maintain high ethical standards in their work, such as ensuring the accuracy of financial statements and avoiding conflicts of interest. Ethical violations can result in disciplinary action, loss of license, and damage to their reputation.
4. Changes in Tax Laws: Tax laws are constantly changing, making it challenging for CPAs to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and requirements. Failure to do so can result in costly errors and penalties.
5. Professional Liability: CPAs may face lawsuits and claims of professional liability if they are perceived to have provided inaccurate or misleading information or failed to meet professional standards.
6. Technology Changes: With the rapid pace of technological change, CPAs must keep up-to-date with the latest software and tools to ensure they are providing the best possible service to their clients.
7. Competition: The accounting industry is highly competitive, with many firms competing for clients. CPAs may face challenges in attracting and retaining clients, particularly in an increasingly digital and global marketplace.

By being aware of these concerns, CPAs can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure that they are providing the best possible service to their clients.

Top Cybersecurity Concerns for CPAs

There are several cybersecurity concerns that Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) should be aware of, including:

1. Phishing Attacks: Phishing attacks are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data. CPAs may be targeted in phishing attacks, particularly during tax season when there is an increased volume of financial transactions.
2. Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s data, making it unusable until a ransom is paid. CPAs may be targeted by ransomware attacks, which can be financially devastating and result in significant data loss.
3. Cloud Security: Many accounting firms now use cloud-based software to store and manage financial data. However, cloud security is a concern, as data stored in the cloud may be vulnerable to data breaches, hacking, or unauthorized access.
4. Social Engineering Attacks: Social engineering attacks involve manipulating individuals into divulging sensitive information or taking certain actions. CPAs may be targeted by social engineering attacks, such as pretexting or baiting, which can be difficult to detect.
5. Insider Threats: Insider threats refer to malicious actions taken by insiders, such as employees or contractors, who have authorized access to sensitive data. CPAs should be aware of the risk of insider threats and take steps to minimize the risk of data breaches or theft.
6. Weak Passwords: Weak passwords can make it easy for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to systems and networks. CPAs should ensure that they use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance security.
7. Third-Party Risk: Accounting firms often work with third-party vendors and contractors, which can introduce cybersecurity risks. CPAs should ensure that third-party vendors have adequate security controls in place to protect against data breaches.

By being aware of these cybersecurity concerns, CPAs can take proactive steps to protect sensitive financial data and information, and minimize the risk of a data breach or cyber attack.

FTC Safeguards Rule Changes

Are you aware of the recent changes to the FTC Safeguards Rule? As of November 30, 2022, the Safeguards Rule has been updated to include several new requirements for businesses that handle consumer data, including accounting firms.  It has been extended to June 09, 2023.

The updated Safeguards Rule now requires accounting firms to implement a comprehensive information security program that includes risk assessments, employee training, and ongoing monitoring and testing of security measures. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in significant fines, penalties, and reputational damage.

As a CPA, you have a duty to protect your clients’ sensitive financial data and information from cyber threats. By ensuring compliance with the updated Safeguards Rule, you can not only meet regulatory requirements but also build trust with your clients and protect your firm’s reputation.

At Sniper Watch, we specialize in helping accounting firms comply with regulatory requirements and enhance their cybersecurity posture. Our team of experts can provide tailored solutions to help you navigate the updated Safeguards Rule and protect your clients’ sensitive data.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you ensure compliance with the updated FTC Safeguards Rule and enhance your cybersecurity.

Watch our (30) minute free webinar where one of our top global cybersecurity experts covers the (9) key changes that a CPA firm must know to stay within compliance, maintain adequate levels of security, and pass regulatory audits.

Link: Sniper Watch FTC Safeguards Rule Webinar

Strategy Session

As a Certified Public Accountant, your clients rely on you to protect their sensitive financial data and information from cyber threats. However, with the constantly evolving cybersecurity landscape, it can be challenging to keep up with the latest threats and best practices.

That’s where we come in. Our cybersecurity experts have extensive experience working with accounting firms and can provide tailored solutions to help you enhance your cybersecurity posture and protect your clients’ data.

From conducting risk assessments and implementing security controls to providing employee training and incident response planning, we can help you minimize the risk of a data breach or cyber attack and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Don’t leave your clients’ financial data at risk. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you enhance your cybersecurity and protect your clients’ sensitive information.

Schedule your free Strategy Session today or call us at +1 (888) 516-3199, option #1 to speak with a Cybersecurity Expert!