With an increased number of members now working between chambers and remotely, it is important to keep your data secure and remain vigilant against potential email phishing attacks.

BCL has introduced a range of cyber security tips and services to help barristers avoid risky scam emails and secure their data. See below for more information.

Multi-factor authentication is now required to further protect your Microsoft 365 data.

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) uses your mobile phone as an added layer of security, providing one-time passwords to authenticate to BCL’s services.
• It is not needed every day – devices require these secondary passwords every 2-3 months and again when changing your BCL password.
• MFA is available at no extra charge for all barristers with an @vicbar.com.au email address.
• Click here to register.

Be aware of suspicious emails, particularly those with links requesting personal information and passwords.

• If a message appears to be from you and has been blocked, held by BCL’s cyber security (Mimecast), it is most likely a SCAM and should not be released.
• If a message or reminder doesn’t look right it is more than likely untrustworthy.  A good indicator of this is the email address it is coming from.
• When releasing held messages in Mimecast claiming to be from your email address make sure to only select the ‘Release’ function and not ‘Permit’. Doing this will ensure that only that specific email is delivered to you, whereas selecting ‘Permit’ allows our systems to deliver all messages from you, some of which may be scam emails.

As part of BCL’s cyber security standards, access to some online services is limited to within Australia only.

• This includes your @vicbar.com.au email and Microsoft 365.
• To access your data from overseas, click here to register for international offshore access.

Improve your security awareness.

• For all barristers with an @vicbar.com.au email.
• Each month barristers will receive material and assessments to improve their security awareness, with certificates issued upon completion of each module.
• Click here to register.

Sophos with Intercept X is available for devices running on Windows and macOS.

• Annual cost of $58.30 inc. GST.
• Includes Antivirus, Anti-Ransomware and Exploit Prevention software.
• Click here to order.

Do not use free file sharing services such as Dropbox.

• OneDrive can be used as a standalone service or 1TB of online storage with OneDrive for Business is included in the Microsoft 365 suite.
• Click here to register.

The BCL Service Desk operates Monday to Friday between the hours of 8.30am to 5.30pm for technology solutions and support.