Accounting & Financial Services
Focus
Accounting & financial services firms
Priority
Priority: Regulatory Readiness
Disciplines
Financial Data
GLBA
Financial data is a direct target, and safeguarding it is often a regulatory requirement, not just good practice.
We help accounting and financial services firms meet GLBA-related safeguards and stay ready for client and insurer scrutiny, without needing an in-house compliance team.
How We Help
- GLBA-related safeguards support
- Cyber insurance and client questionnaire readiness
- Layered protection for financial systems and client data
- Ongoing compliance support as requirements shift
Where the Risk Actually Comes From
- Client Social Security numbers, bank details, and tax records stored across accounting and tax-prep platforms
- Selective security: MFA turned on for email but not for accounting or tax software
- Long-standing vendor relationships where no contract ever included security requirements
Compliance & Regulatory Landscape
FTC Safeguards Rule (GLBA, 16 CFR Part 314)
Any business that prepares tax returns or handles client financial records is classified as a 'financial institution' under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, regardless of firm size. This has required a written information security program since June 2023, and breach notification requirements took effect in 2024.
Florida Information Protection Act (FIPA)
Requires notification to affected individuals within 30 days of a breach involving personal or financial information.
This is educational information, not legal advice. Confirm specific obligations with qualified counsel or a compliance professional.
Common Questions
Does the FTC Safeguards Rule really apply to my small accounting practice?
Yes. Any business that prepares tax returns or handles client financial records is classified as a financial institution under GLBA, regardless of size.
What's actually required in a written information security program?
At minimum: documented access controls, encryption, monitoring, and an incident response plan. We help build and maintain this as part of Compliance Support.
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