Two prominent national law firms announced that they suffered recent cyber incidents, underscoring the growing threat of social‑engineering attacks on organizations that hold sensitive client information.
Quinn Emanuel breach
Quinn Emanuel disclosed that an unauthorized third party accessed a single software application through a temporarily compromised user account on August 14. The firm said the breach affected a limited number of client documents, including files related to short‑seller Muddy Waters that were obtained in a Florida lawsuit. Quinn Emanuel has informed the affected parties and confirmed that no further unauthorized access is ongoing.
In a statement, the firm emphasized that the incident was isolated and that its systems remain secure. Muddy Waters, which had previously sought to bar Quinn Emanuel from a related Texas case, criticized the firm for the breach, calling the incident “outrageous.” Quinn Emanuel declined to comment further on Muddy Waters’ remarks.
McDermott breach
McDermott reported an isolated social‑engineering incident involving a single user that exposed a limited set of documents, including Social Security numbers and health data. The firm worked with cybersecurity experts and law‑enforcement officials, and it says the matter has been resolved and its systems remain secure. McDermott reiterated that client confidentiality and privacy remain its highest priority.
Broader context
These breaches join recent disclosures from other large firms such as Herbert Smith Freehills, Kramer, Goodwin Procter, and WilmerHale, highlighting how law firms are attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking confidential business and personal data. Social‑engineering attacks typically involve manipulating employees into revealing credentials or granting system access.
Law firms across the country are urged to strengthen security protocols, conduct regular employee training, and invest in advanced threat‑detection tools to protect client information and maintain trust.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
