The Security Checklist for Law Firms and Medical Clinics

If you handle sensitive client data—medical records, legal documents, financial information—your website isn't just a marketing tool. It's a liability. Here's why Wix and Squarespace don't cut it.

The Hidden Risk of DIY Platforms

Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress.com are designed for bloggers and small shops—not for businesses handling confidential data. The problems:

• Shared hosting: Your site shares a server with thousands of others
• No HIPAA/GDPR compliance: Generic platforms can't guarantee regulatory adherence
• Outdated plugins: 90% of WordPress hacks come from vulnerable third-party plugins

The Bank-Grade Security Checklist

1. SSL/TLS Encryption (HTTPS)

Minimum: TLS 1.3 with 256-bit encryption. This ensures all data transmitted between your site and visitors is encrypted.

2. Isolated Hosting Environment

Your site should run on a dedicated server or containerized environment (like Vercel, AWS, or Google Cloud). Shared hosting = shared risk.

3. Regular Security Audits

Automated vulnerability scanning every 24 hours. We use tools like:

• OWASP ZAP for penetration testing
• Snyk for dependency vulnerability checks
• Cloudflare WAF for DDoS protection

4. HIPAA/GDPR Compliance

If you're a medical clinic or handle EU clients, compliance isn't optional. Requirements include:

• Encrypted data storage
• Audit logs for all data access
• Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) with hosting providers

5. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Admin access should require 2FA. A stolen password shouldn't mean a data breach.

Real-World Consequences

A law firm we consulted with had their WordPress site hacked. The breach exposed 1,200 client emails. The cost:

• $47,000 in legal fees and settlements
• 18 months of reputation damage
• 23% drop in new client inquiries

The Bottom Line

If your business handles sensitive data, your website is a critical infrastructure—not a marketing expense. Cutting corners on security is like leaving your office door unlocked at night.