Cyber threats aren’t slowing down—and for tax professionals, the stakes in 2025 are higher than ever. From phishing scams to ransomware and data breaches, client information is a prime target. The reality is simple: protecting sensitive financial data has become just as critical as delivering accurate tax advice.
That’s where cybersecurity best practices 2025 come into play. Advisors who strengthen their cybersecurity processes and invest in cybersecurity awareness can safeguard client trust, stay compliant, and avoid costly disruptions. But managing it all can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already stretched by deadlines and shifting regulations.
At Harness, we work with firms navigating these exact pressures. Alongside tools like our secure client portal and concierge support, we help advisors modernize their practices so compliance and protection aren’t afterthoughts—they’re built into everyday operations.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most important steps to tighten your defenses, reduce risk, and build a tax practice that’s ready for whatever 2025 brings.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the cybersecurity landscape for tax professionals in 2025
- Building stronger cybersecurity processes
- Building a culture of cybersecurity awareness
- Real-world case studies tax advisors should learn from
- Practical steps for tax advisors in 2025
- Securing your practice before threats strike
Understanding the cybersecurity landscape for tax professionals in 2025
Before we jump into cybersecurity best practices 2025, it’s worth zooming out. The threat landscape for tax professionals has never been more aggressive, or more creative. Criminals know that firms, no matter the size, sit on a goldmine of personal and financial data. That makes tax advisors prime targets.
Attacks today look very different from even a few years ago. It’s not just phishing emails with obvious typos—now, AI-generated messages and voice scams can mimic clients or colleagues almost perfectly. Ransomware groups are moving faster, encrypting files in hours instead of days. And cloud misconfigurations remain one of the most common (and preventable) entry points for breaches.
For tax professionals, the challenge isn’t only about spotting these risks, it’s about building cybersecurity processes that protect client data while keeping your practice efficient.
This is where cybersecurity awareness becomes a business differentiator. Firms that invest in it are avoiding breaches and earning client trust in an environment where reputation can make or break a practice.
Building stronger cybersecurity processes
Tax advisors in 2025 face higher expectations when it comes to safeguarding sensitive client data. A strong security posture begins with core cybersecurity processes that operate every day of the year, not only when filing deadlines loom.
1. Require multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Every login, from email to tax software, should be protected by MFA. According to CISA, this single step can block over 99% of automated cyberattacks.
2. Encrypt data in storage and transit
Encryption is essential for files stored in your client portal, emails sent to clients, and internal communications. End-to-end encryption ensures data remains secure wherever it moves.
3. Keep systems patched and updated
Outdated software is one of the easiest entry points for attackers. Make patch management a routine part of your workflow instead of treating it as an afterthought.
4. Control and monitor access
Restrict file permissions to those who truly need them, and log activity for accountability. When staff leave your firm, swift offboarding is critical to prevent gaps.
5. Test your backups regularly
A backup only matters if it works. Run periodic recovery drills to ensure your systems can bounce back quickly from ransomware or system failures.
Harness helps firms put these safeguards into practice with tools designed specifically for tax advisors: a secure client portal, automated document workflows, and concierge support that reduces risky email exchanges. With these systems in place, your cybersecurity processes become part of your firm’s DNA—keeping data safe without adding busywork.
Building a culture of cybersecurity awareness
Technology protects data, but people are the real gatekeepers. For tax firms, human error remains the number one risk factor in cybersecurity incidents. That’s why ongoing training is important—not a once-a-year checkbox, but a regular part of how your team works.
Simple habits go a long way.
- Spotting phishing emails before they’re opened.
- Practicing good password hygiene, including unique logins for each system.
- Making multi-factor authentication (MFA) non-negotiable across all platforms.
Many firms find success in scheduling annual refresher programs that align with tax season deadlines. Staff are already focused on compliance during this period, making it the perfect time to reinforce good habits.
With Harness Concierge Support for Advisors, training becomes part of the client service workflow. Concierge handles routine admin and communication, reducing the likelihood of mistakes that expose sensitive information. This lets your team focus on higher-value work while maintaining a strong security culture.
Real-world case studies tax advisors should learn from
Cyber risks feel abstract until you see what happens when firms get caught off guard.
Three huge breaches in the accounting and tax world highlight the consequences:
- BDO Canada (2023) – A ransomware attack targeted third-party file transfer software. Sensitive client data may have been exposed, showing how critical vendor management is to security.
- PwC Australia (2022–2023) – Internal sharing of confidential government tax information triggered regulatory investigations and reputational damage. A reminder that insider risks can be just as dangerous as external threats.
- Wolters Kluwer (2023) – Malware shut down systems used by thousands of firms during peak filing season. Firms without strong backup and continuity plans were left unable to serve clients.
The lesson? Even global players face breaches when systems or processes fail. Tax advisors who stay proactive with backups, vendor checks, and internal safeguards give themselves (and their clients) far greater resilience when threats strike.
Practical steps for tax advisors in 2025
Pulling these lessons together, here’s where every advisor should focus this year:
- Review and update your cybersecurity processes quarterly.
- Invest in staff training programs that build real awareness.
- Vet every software vendor for compliance and reliability.
- Keep backups current and test them regularly.
- Use secure portals and document workflows to limit risk in daily operations.
Securing your practice before threats strike
Cybersecurity in 2025 is no longer a side concern for tax advisors, instead, it’s central to protecting client trust and staying competitive in a crowded marketplace. Firms that treat security as part of their everyday operations, not an afterthought, are the ones positioned to grow with confidence.
By reinforcing your cybersecurity processes, investing in team awareness, and learning from the real-world breaches that shook the industry, you can turn potential vulnerabilities into strengths.
Harness helps make that possible. With secure technology, verified prep support, and concierge services built for modern firms, we give you the tools and human backup to keep your practice efficient and safe.
Get started with Harness today and see how you can protect client data while freeing up more time to grow your practice.
Disclaimer
Tax related products and services provided through Harness Tax LLC. Harness Tax LLC is affiliated with Harness Wealth Advisers LLC, collectively referred to as “Harness Wealth”. Harness Wealth Advisers LLC is a paid promoter, internet registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This article should not be considered tax or legal advice and is provided for informational purposes only. Please consult a tax and/or legal professional for advice specific to your individual circumstances. This article is a product of Harness Tax LLC.
Content was prepared by a third-party provider and not the adviser. Content should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. Although we believe the content is reliable, it is not guaranteed as to accuracy and does not purport to be complete nor is it intended to be the primary basis for financial or tax decisions.