---
title: "Data Breaches: Panic or Disruption?"
description: Protexure Accountant's Blog provides practical advice for small cpa firms. Learn more about data breaches and how they can effect your accounting firm.
image: https://blog.protexure.com/hubfs/Protexure%20Photos/pexels-photo-169573.jpeg
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# Data Breaches: Panic or Disruption?
---
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[Pat Cosulich](https://blog.protexure.com/author/pat-cosulich)
June 8, 2016 1 min
The cost of data breaches for US companies exceeds $6 million, not including loss of reputation or negative media or customer attention. Imagine how devastating the impact can be, particularly for small CPA firms with fewer resources to manage their cyber or reputational risk. Clearly, a data breach is disruptive, but it is not time to reach for the panic button.
It’s critical, however, to have a response plan in place before an incident occurs. The plan should consider every possible scenario – and the role staff will play to keep that plan on track.
These are some key factors to consider:
- Assess priorities and risks based on what you know about the breach.
- Bring in forensic professionals to begin an in-depth investigation.
- Build an internal response team. Small CPA firms do not always have a Chief Information or Technology Officer, so senior management should be the first line of defense.
- Make sure to include legal, marketing, public relations and compliance in the mix.
- Communication is key. Focus on the right messages and how to share them with customers throughout the process using traditional and digital channels.
Our small firm RLI Privacy Protection Package for Accounting and Legal Professionals is designed for you. It provides access to information and sophisticated technical resources to help minimize data breaches – before you hit the panic button.
[Click Here](https://blog.protexure.com/blog/data-breaches-the-risks-keep-coming) to learn how your company can manage data breaches and potential cyber threats.
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### Categories
- [Risk Management & Practice Protection (9)](https://blog.protexure.com/topic/risk-management-practice-protection)
- [Industry Trends & Regulations (6)](https://blog.protexure.com/topic/industry-trends-regulations)
- [Cybersecurity & Technology Risks (2)](https://blog.protexure.com/topic/cybersecurity-technology-risks)
### CONTENT TYPE
### Content Type
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## Get A Risk-Free Quote Today
If a claim is made against you by a client, your professional liability insurance comes to your defense. Also known as “errors and omissions” insurance, it protects you from the threat of ruinous legal bills and defends your firm. No practicing accountant should be without it.
[Get a Quote](https://www.protexure.com/AccountantIns/quickquote.do)
### [Pat Cosulich](https://blog.protexure.com/author/pat-cosulich)
As Chief Information Officer of Protexure Insurance Agency, Pat Cosulich is responsible for developing a systems platform to provide superior service to small to mid market firms. Prior to joining Protexure, Pat was Vice President of Insurance Business Development for Outline Systems Inc., a specialty insurance software provider. In over 20 years with CNA, she was responsible for developing specialty web platforms, as well as policy and claims systems. In addition to significant experience in systems development, Pat has a deep understanding and expertise in Professional Liability.
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