Unsupported Systems and Aging Tools Leave Law Firms Exposed

For Montana law firms, trust is everything. Clients count on you to protect their most sensitive information—contracts, case strategies, financial records, and deeply personal details.

But what many firms don’t realize is that outdated technology could quietly be putting all that trust at risk.

At Information Systems of Montana (ISM), we’ve seen firsthand how aging servers, unsupported software, and expired warranties create hidden entry points for cybercriminals.

In today’s threat landscape, “if it still works, keep it” is no longer a safe strategy. Modern law firms must balance tradition and reliability with the urgent need to stay secure, compliant, and efficient in a digital-first world.

Why Old Tech Is a Liability in Law Firms

1. No More Security Patches

Vendors eventually phase out support for older systems. When that happens, updates and security patches stop.

If your firm is still running Windows 10 (end of support: October 2025) or outdated firewalls, vulnerabilities remain permanently open—and hackers know it. A single unpatched flaw can lead to ransomware locking down your entire network—or worse, exposing confidential client files.

2. Compliance and Ethics Concerns

Lawyers are bound by strict ethical obligations. Under the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and guidance from the State Bar of Montana, attorneys must take reasonable steps to protect client data.

Outdated systems can leave firms out of compliance, risking:

  • Reputational damage
  • Ethical complaints
  • Disciplinary action

3. Data Loss and Downtime

Imagine preparing for trial and your old server crashes. Without a warranty, reliable backup, or disaster recovery plan, critical files could be lost permanently.

The ABA’s 2022 Legal Technology Survey found that 27% of law firms have experienced a data breach—often from hardware or software failure.

For smaller Montana firms, the cost of downtime can spiral beyond what insurance covers.

4. Rising Insurance Scrutiny

Cyber insurers now require up-to-date security measures such as:

  • Multi-factor authentication
  • Endpoint detection
  • Current software versions

Outdated systems can mean:

  • Higher premiums
  • Reduced coverage
  • Denied claims after a breach

Outdated tech isn’t just risky—it’s expensive.

Real-World Risks for Legal Practices

Law firms aren’t tech companies, but they handle some of the most valuable data. Aging systems create vulnerabilities such as:

  • File storage on copiers/printers: Scanned documents often remain locally stored without secure wipe options.
  • Legacy firewalls: Unsupported devices can’t block modern attacks.
  • Old case management software: Unpatched systems are easy targets.
  • Unsupported email servers: Outdated platforms lack modern phishing and spam protection.

In 2024, a New York firm lost two weeks of operations and multiple clients after ransomware infiltrated via an unpatched email system. Montana firms face the same risks.

The Hidden Costs of Holding onto Old Tech

Delaying upgrades may seem practical—but “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” can cost more long-term.

  • Productivity Drain: Slow, unreliable systems waste billable time.
  • Lost Opportunities: Incompatibility with modern tools like secure portals or e-signatures.
  • Talent Retention: Younger attorneys expect efficient tools.
  • Client Perception: Clients increasingly ask about cybersecurity—outdated systems erode confidence.

How Montana Law Firms Can Protect Themselves

1. Audit Your Hardware and Software

Inventory all servers, firewalls, case management tools, email systems, and even printers.
Check Microsoft’s product lifecycle page to find expiration dates.

2. Plan Lifecycle Upgrades

Budget proactively to replace systems before warranties expire.
Firms that plan upgrades in cycles avoid surprise expenses and downtime.

3. Move to the Cloud—Safely

Secure cloud platforms provide scalability, redundancy, and automatic updates.
Choose trusted, compliant solutions such as Microsoft 365 for Law Firms, and partner with IT experts to ensure security alignment.

4. Partner with a Trusted IT Firm

Technology isn’t your firm’s core business—but it’s ours.

At ISM, we’ve been serving Montana businesses for nearly 30 years, helping law firms maintain compliance, confidentiality, and continuity through:

  • Lifecycle planning
  • Secure infrastructure upgrades
  • 24/7 critical support

We don’t just replace hardware—we help you build a future-ready IT roadmap.

5. Train Staff on Security Awareness

Human error remains the top cause of breaches.

Regular staff training on phishing awareness, password hygiene, and safe practices dramatically reduces risk.
The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers great resources for building a strong security culture.

Protect Client Trust Before It’s Too Late

Your clients trust you with their most confidential matters. Don’t let outdated technology become the weak link that breaks that trust.

For Montana firms, the stakes are higher than ever—a single breach could threaten your reputation, clients, and license to practice.

At Information Systems of Montana, we’ve spent nearly 30 years helping Montana law firms stay secure and productive.

Schedule a Free Technology Health Check

Take the first step toward protecting your firm, your clients, and your future: https://www.infosysmt.com/contact-us/