- Strong perimeter security alone doesn’t fully protect law firms
- Internal file sharing is a frequent source of data exposure
- Shared folder links can be accessed far beyond the intended recipient
- Poor permission and expiration settings increase breach risk
- Malware and ransomware can enter systems through shared folders
- Microsoft 365 sharing settings are often misconfigured by default
Insights: Why Internal Sharing Is a Major Security Risk
Many law firms invest heavily in perimeter defenses — firewalls, antivirus, and advanced edge security. And in many cases, those tools are doing their job. The issue often lies inside the firm, where everyday workflows unintentionally create risk.
Employees regularly share folders and files with clients to move cases forward. It’s convenient, fast, and usually well-intentioned. But without strict controls, those shared links can become a serious vulnerability. If a link is set to “anyone with access,” it can be forwarded, indexed, or exposed if a client’s system is breached.
There are two major risks firms should consider. First, sensitive data can leak out — health information, financial records, or personally identifiable information may be accessed by unintended parties. Second, malicious files can be dropped into shared folders. If a user unknowingly opens an infected file, malware or ransomware can spread across the firm’s internal systems.
In some cases, attackers aren’t trying to lock everything up. Instead, they quietly gain access and monitor data over time — harvesting information that can be used for broader breaches or identity theft. This type of exposure can go undetected for months.
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