Authors: Anna Ubay
MAIN CYBERSECURITY THREATS IN THE LEGAL SPHERE
Anna Ubaydullaeva
Associate Professor, Department of Cyber Law
Tashkent State University of Law, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Sanjar Ubaydullaev
PhD Researcher, Department of Cyber Law
Tashkent State University of Law, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Abstract – This article examines the principal cybersecurity threats affecting the legal profession in the context of digital transformation. Law firms and legal departments increasingly rely on digital technologies, cloud services, and remote work infrastructures, which, while enhancing efficiency, also expose them to heightened cyber risks. The study analyzes key threat vectors, including phishing and social engineering, ransomware, data breaches, insider threats, distributed denial-of-service attacks, advanced persistent threats, cloud misconfigurations, mobile and remote work vulnerabilities, supply chain risks, and emerging technological threats. Particular attention is given to the ethical and professional responsibilities of lawyers in safeguarding client confidentiality and maintaining the integrity of legal services. Drawing on empirical reports, regulatory standards, and notable case examples, the article highlights the evolving nature of cybersecurity risks and underscores the need for a proactive, integrated approach to cyber risk management in the legal sector.
Keywords: cybersecurity, legal profession, law firms, data protection, ransomware, phishing, professional ethics.
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Dr. Anna Ubaydullaeva is an international lawyer, arbitrator, and professional mediator with expertise in international law, intellectual property, AI and digital economy regulation. She is an Associate Professor at leading universities in Uzbekistan and Europe, including Tashkent State University of Law, Webster University, Roma Tre University, the University of Bologna, and the University of Gdańsk. Dr. Ubaydullaeva is a member of AICA and CAFA, serves as an arbitrator with TIAC and VIAC, and is a consultant to international institutions, including the World Bank. – ORCID: 0009-0008-7237-9554
Sanjar Ubaydullaev is a Contracts Manager at ACWA Power Uzbekistan and a legal and contracts professional with over 10 years of experience in EPC, energy, infrastructure, and oil & gas projects. He specializes in FIDIC-based contract management, procurement, commercial negotiations, and claims administration across the full contract lifecycle. He has managed major renewable energy, hydrogen, mining, and gas projects, including PV plants with BESS and large-scale EPC facilities. Mr. Ubaydullaev holds an LL.M., an MBA in International Oil and Gas Business, and extensive experience in multinational project environments.