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CPA Firm Secures Tax and Client Data for Compliance
This case study describes how BitBlockIT helped a client in the Accounting sector address technology and security challenges. We share the problem, our approach, and the outcomes achieved. If your organization faces similar challenges, contact us for a free consultation or explore our managed IT and cybersecurity services.
Problem
A Costa Mesa CPA firm stored client tax returns and financial documents in shared drives with broad permissions. No MFA on email or document management. Staff used personal devices for client work without encryption.
Risk Exposure
Client data breach, regulatory scrutiny, and professional liability. Tax and financial data could be exposed via phishing or stolen devices. No documented controls for client confidentiality or SOC 2 readiness.
Technical Diagnosis
Shared drives lacked role-based access. No MFA on Microsoft 365 or tax software. Backup retention was insufficient for audit requirements. No security awareness training or device management policy.
Implementation
Deployed MFA across Microsoft 365 and tax/document platforms. Implemented role-based access controls and folder-level permissions. Set up encrypted backup with extended retention. Conducted security awareness training and enforced device encryption policies.
Measurable Outcome
MFA on all users. Access controls documented and restricted. Backup retention aligned with retention requirements. Client data handling procedures documented for compliance readiness.
“BitBlockIT helped us secure our clients' sensitive data and get our controls documented. We feel much better prepared for client questions and compliance reviews.”