For accounting firms, client trust is everything. Yet even the most diligent firms often overlook serious security gaps that can put sensitive taxpayer data at risk. While you may already have antivirus software and strong passwords in place, modern threats require deeper safeguards. Here are three of the most common risks accounting firms miss—and how to stay ahead of them.
1. Weak Access Controls
One of the biggest risks comes from inside the firm. Too often, multiple staff members share logins, or employees retain access to client data long after leaving the firm. Without strict role-based access controls, it only takes one weak link to expose sensitive information. Best practice means every user should have unique credentials, enforced with multi-factor authentication (MFA), and immediate offboarding when roles change.
2. Unsecured Remote Work
With so many accounting teams working remotely, firms often rely on unsecured devices or public Wi-Fi. This creates major vulnerabilities if client files are accessed outside a protected environment. Cybercriminals target these weak points because they’re easy entry doors into firm systems. The solution is secure Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) or VPN access—ensuring all work is done in a controlled environment with no data stored locally.
3. Outdated or Incomplete Compliance Practices
Many firms assume compliance is covered once they’ve ticked a few boxes. But IRS Publication 4557, FTC Safeguards, and global frameworks like ISO 27001 require a layered approach: ongoing training, vulnerability scanning, encryption, and documented incident response plans. Without continuous monitoring, even firms that believe they’re compliant may be exposed.
How SimpleEntry Protects Your Firm
At SimpleEntry, we designed our security model around the highest standards—because as accountants ourselves, we know exactly what’s at stake. Our framework includes:
- Multi-Factor Authentication for all access
- End-to-end encryption of data in transit and at rest
- Role-based access with strict onboarding and offboarding
- Secure VDI and VPN-only work environments
- Continuous compliance monitoring with tools like Tenable, Intune, and Drata
- Ongoing staff security training focused on IRS and FTC protocols
Why It Matters
Data breaches don’t just result in financial penalties—they erode client trust, damage reputation, and can even threaten a firm’s survival. By addressing these three often-overlooked risks, you protect not only your clients but also the long-term health of your firm.
At the end of the day, clients choose firms they can trust. Securing your data isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a competitive advantage.