An increasing number of U.S. companies now transfer their funds online and cybercriminals are closely watching their transactions. With over 17,000 remote accounting positions open nationwide and 42% of employees working at home more than once per week, the way accounting firms manage data has completely changed. This shift to remote working means firms are finding it tougher to safeguard sensitive financial data.
If you operate or work in an accounting practice, your clientele data is probably getting accessed via home Wi-Fi networks, personal laptops, and public cafes. And if you feel your firm is simply too small to be targeted, it’s time to think again. Small and medium sized accounting firms are now being attacked since they often lack strong security systems.
Whether you offer accounting services to businesses or individuals, taking security precautions today could save you from major breaches later.
Why Cybersecurity Is a Top Priority for Accounting Firms in 2025
As an accounting firm, you store Social Security numbers, account details, payroll info, tax documents, etc.. And hackers know this. In reality, the financial industry is responsible for 18% of all cyber attacks globally & the numbers are increasing.
Remote work has opened new points for attackers to enter. Hackers now target hundreds or dozens of remote employees using personal devices on unsecured networks rather than one office.
Cyber attacks have far-reaching consequences:
- The typical price for a data breach in the US is USD 4.45 million (IBM, 2024).
- 6 weeks following a major cyberattack, 60% of small businesses closed down.
The new FTC Safeguards Rule requires tax professionals and accounting firms to safeguard client data or face penalties.
In case you are not prepared, a phishing email or a badly configured cloud setting could stop your operations.
How Remote Work Brings New Cybersecurity Challenges
Let us now understand the challenges associated with remote accounting work:
- Home Wi-Fi isn't enterprise level security: Most home networks aren't as protected as office networks. If your staff work from home making use of standard routers, they may be exposed to financial data unknowingly.
- Use of personal devices: Not all employees use company laptops. Some work on personal devices without antivirus software, secure configurations or regular updates.
- Phishing & social engineering attacks: Hackers know people working from home are easily targetable. They send you phony emails, urgent messages or impersonation tricks to trick your employees into giving up login details.
- Cloud misconfigurations: Cloud systems such as Google Drive, QuickBooks Online, or Dropbox are ideal for remote accounting teams - but only in case they're secured correctly.
- Lack of real time oversight: In a traditional office, IT teams can spot issues rapidly and fix them. With remote setups, unusual behavior could go undetected for months - providing attackers time to do harm.
What Accounting Firms Must Do To Stay Secure
Accounting Firms must create a solid cybersecurity foundation for remote teams. The key pillars of remote accounting security are:
a. Employ Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)
Passwords aren't sufficient. MFA requires a second step (a code on your phone or a fingerprint scan) to prove identity. The FTC recommends MFA for tax and financial professionals.
b. Use secure cloud services
Pick cloud systems which provide end-to-end encryption, access control and activity logs. Be sure your team shares files via secured links, not attachments.
c. Set up VPN access
VPNs create a tunnel between the employee's device and your network. This protects information when workers are working hard on public Wi-Fi.
d. Restrict device access
Limit device access with device management tools. If a laptop computer is lost or even stolen, you can likely wipe it remotely.
e. Install endpoint protection
Anti-malware and firewall tools are needed on all employee devices. They catch threats early and block suspicious behavior.
Low-Cost Tools That Increase Security for Small Accounting Firms
You do not need a large IT team or costly equipment to save yourself. Some low-budget tools for protecting accounting firm data are:
- Password managers: Store and manage strong, unique passwords (LastPass, Bit warden).
- Firewalls & antivirus programs: Many of these are free or inexpensive.
- Google Workspace/Microsoft 365: Security built into file sharing and emails.
- Device encryption: Enable this on all laptops to avoid information leaking if the device is lost.
- Secure backup systems: Regular backups keep you from losing data and help during ransomware attacks.
Implementing Policies That Match Remote Work Realities
As important as technology is establishing clear rules for how remote employees must manage sensitive data.
Essential policies for remote accounting security:
- Never ever use public Wi-Fi without having a VPN.
- Only store client files on approved platforms.
- Don't forward work emails to personal accounts.
- When not being used, lock devices.
- Any suspicious action is immediately reported.
- Ask employees to sign a remote work security contract indicating they understand these rules.
Also Read | Cybersecurity Best Practices for Small and Mid-Sized Accounting Firms in USA
Final Thoughts: Include Cybersecurity in Your Everyday Accounting Services
Remote working is not going to disappear soon and neither are cyber attacks. You can offer accounting services remotely, but your firm's success relies on your ability to thwart possible attacks.
The good news? You need not spend thousands to remain safe. Small steps like VPNs, training your team, enabling MFA and establishing clear security policies can develop strong layers of defense.
Cybersecurity for accounting companies is not just about technology; it’s also about safeguarding your company, your reputation and your customers. As remote work gets increasingly complex, U.S. accounting firm security must keep up in 2025.
Build strong defenses with The Fino Partners today to save your firm costly, stressful issues later.
