The growth and sophistication of 2026 cyber threats are not theoretical. With the latest findings, the FBI’s 2024 Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) report identified $16.6 billion in reported losses, reflecting a 33% increase over the previous year. Illinois consistently ranks among the top states for financial losses tied to internet crime. For Illinois lawyers, that data point matters. Law firms manage client funds, sensitive communications, confidential business information, and high-value transactions; all of these factors make them attractive targets.

The Silent Ransom Group (SRG), also known as Luna Moth, Chatty Spider, and UNC3753, has emerged as a serious cyber threat to U.S.-based law firms. According to the FBI, SRG uses sophisticated social engineering tactics, including callback phishing emails and IT-themed phone calls, to gain remote access to devices, steal sensitive client data, and extort victims. While SRG has targeted multiple sectors, the legal industry is a prime focus due to the confidential nature of its work and the potential value of its data.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month kicks off this October, the perfect time for legal professionals to reflect on the evolving cybersecurity risks of Illinois lawyers in today’s digital landscape.