Cybersecurity and Compliance for Accounting Firms

Inland Productivity Solutions provides cybersecurity and compliance services designed specifically for accounting practices in our area. From WISP development to cyber insurance compliance, we help firms protect sensitive financial data and meet regulatory requirements.

Is Your Firm Ready for an IRS Compliance Review?

Every tax preparer is required to maintain a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) under IRS Publication 4557. The FTC Safeguards Rule adds additional requirements.

If your firm does not have a documented and implemented WISP, you are out of compliance.

What a Compliant Security Program Requires

  • Administrative safeguards (training, policies, incident response)
  • Technical safeguards (encryption, MFA, monitoring)
  • Physical safeguards (facility and device controls)

The Real Risks of Non-Compliance

  • FTC penalties exceeding $50,000 per violation
  • Loss of IRS e-filing privileges
  • Denied cyber insurance claims
  • Breach costs averaging $200+ per record
  • Loss of client trust

How We Help

We work with accounting firms to:

  • Create and document WISP plans
  • Implement required safeguards
  • Maintain compliance year-round
  • Prepare for cyber insurance questionnaires

How We Protect Your Firm From Cyber Threats

Accounting firms are high-value targets due to sensitive financial data.

Our approach includes:

  • Endpoint detection and response
  • Email security and phishing protection
  • Multi-factor authentication
  • Encrypted backups and disaster recovery
  • Network monitoring and alerting
  • Security awareness training
  • Dark web monitoring
cyber security concept, Login, User, identification information security and encryption, secure Internet access, cybersecurity, secure access to user's personal information,
Cyber security team conducting cyber surveillance and threat detection in a governmental agency. Hackers working on cybercrime and malware prevention, data breach protection.

Do You Meet Cyber Insurance Requirements?

Modern policies require documented controls including:

  • MFA
  • Endpoint protection
  • Backup verification
  • Access control
  • Incident response planning

We implement these controls and ensure your documentation aligns with carrier requirements.

The Outcome: Security and Compliance Confidence

  • Your firm meets IRS and FTC requirements
  • Minimize the risk of a reportable incident
  • Your security controls are documented and enforceable
  • Your cyber insurance coverage remains valid
  • Your client data is protected

Ready to Strengthen Your Firm’s Security?

Schedule a security and compliance assessment to evaluate your current posture and identify gaps.

FAQ: Cybersecurity and Compliance for Accounting Firms

What is a WISP and does my firm need one?

A Written Information Security Plan is required under IRS Publication 4557 for all tax preparers and outlines how your firm protects client data.

Do you help with cyber insurance compliance requirements?

Yes. We implement required controls and assist with completing annual carrier questionnaires.

What happens if my firm experiences a data breach?

Costs include regulatory penalties, notification requirements, downtime, and reputational damage. Preventative controls significantly reduce risk.

What cybersecurity protections do accounting firms need?

Minimum requirements include MFA, endpoint protection, encrypted backups, and monitoring systems.

Why are accounting firms targeted by cybercriminals?

They store high-value financial and identity data, making them prime targets for ransomware and fraud.

How often should a WISP be reviewed?

At least annually, along with updates when systems, processes, or risks change.