Cybersecurity & Data Breach Attorneys 

Cyberattacks and data breaches have become a major threat to businesses of all sizes. From multinational corporations to small businesses, no company is immune. A single cyber incident can expose sensitive customer information, disrupt operations, and cause irreparable harm to a company’s reputation. 

Beyond financial losses, businesses that suffer a data breach can also face serious legal consequences. Regulatory agencies and consumers alike may take legal action, alleging negligence in protecting personal data.  

That’s where a team of experienced commercial litigation attorneys come in. At Horn Wright, LLP, we help businesses defend against lawsuits, comply with complex cybersecurity laws, and limit their exposure to regulatory penalties. 

The Cost of a Data Breach: Who Pays the Price? 

A data breach is more than just an IT issue—it’s a financial and legal disaster waiting to happen. When businesses fail to protect sensitive data, they open themselves up to lawsuits, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage that can take years to recover from. The direct financial losses, including fines and settlements, can reach millions, while the hidden costs—like lost business and diminished consumer trust—can be even more devastating. 

Companies that fail to prevent or properly respond to cyberattacks can face significant legal exposure. Common legal claims our attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, often see include: 

• Negligence claims: Businesses can be sued for failing to implement reasonable cybersecurity measures. Courts often evaluate whether a company took appropriate steps to secure sensitive data. Failure to follow industry best practices, such as regular security audits, employee training, and robust encryption, can lead to liability. 
• Consumer class actions: If customer data is exposed, affected individuals can file lawsuits seeking damages for identity theft or financial losses. These lawsuits can result in substantial settlements or judgments, especially when large numbers of consumers are affected. 
• Failure to disclose breaches: Many laws require businesses to notify customers and regulators of breaches within a specific timeframe. Delayed reporting can lead to hefty fines and legal action.  

Even after the legal dust settles, companies face an uphill battle to regain customer trust. Studies show that businesses suffer significant churn following a data breach, especially in industries where consumer trust is paramount, such as healthcare and finance. 

 Proactively addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities and having the strong legal team of Horn Wright, LLP, on standby can make the difference between survival and total financial ruin. 

The Cybersecurity Laws That Can Make or Break Your Business 

New York has some of the strictest cybersecurity regulations in the country. Businesses operating in the state must comply with these complex laws or risk heavy fines and legal action. Our business transaction attorneys are always vigilant of the regulatory bodies that aggressively enforce these laws, since non-compliance will undoubtedly become a costly mistake. 

Federal Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Laws 

• FTC Act: The Federal Trade Commission holds companies accountable for failing to secure consumer data. Businesses engaged in unfair or deceptive practices regarding data security will face enforcement actions, fines, and consumer lawsuits. 
• HIPAA: Healthcare providers must follow strict security standards to protect patient data. Failure to comply can lead to significant penalties, regulatory scrutiny, and lawsuits from affected individuals whose sensitive medical records have been exposed. 
• GLBA: Financial institutions must safeguard customer information under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. This includes implementing safeguards to prevent unauthorized access to consumer financial data and ensuring proper cybersecurity practices. 

New York’s Cybersecurity Regulations 

• NY SHIELD Act: This law requires businesses to implement reasonable security measures to protect consumer data. Companies must ensure data encryption, employee training, and risk assessments to comply with the law. 
• DFS Cybersecurity Regulation: Financial service companies must adhere to strict cybersecurity guidelines, including incident reporting and risk assessments. These rules require firms to establish robust cybersecurity programs to protect customer data and the integrity of financial transactions. 

With regulators increasing their scrutiny of cybersecurity practices, businesses need to stay ahead of compliance requirements to avoid hefty fines and damaging lawsuits. Our commercial litigation lawyers are ready to guide you through audits, strong encryption policies, and a proactive approach to cybersecurity defense from the moment you call. 

How to Fight Back Against Data Breach Lawsuits 

When your business is hit with a cybersecurity lawsuit, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Companies that don’t have a strong legal strategy risk losing millions, facing regulatory actions, and suffering irreparable reputational damage. Having Horn Wright, LLP, by your side is the best way to ensure you start off with an aggressive, well-planned defense. 

Some of the key strategies the attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, use to get you justice: 

• Challenging causation and damages: Plaintiffs must prove they suffered actual harm due to a breach. Demonstrating that an alleged breach did not cause financial loss or identity theft can weaken a plaintiff’s case. 
• Demonstrating adequate cybersecurity measures: Showing compliance with industry standards can help limit liability. Businesses that can prove they followed best practices, conducted risk assessments, and implemented protective measures may avoid severe legal consequences. 
• Limiting exposure in class actions: Businesses can fight class certification or negotiate settlements to minimize legal risks. A strong defense strategy can prevent a class action from escalating and reduce potential damages. 
• Navigating regulatory investigations: Working proactively with regulators can prevent excessive fines and penalties. Businesses should cooperate with regulatory agencies while ensuring they do not admit liability unnecessarily. 

Winning a cybersecurity lawsuit requires a combination of legal expertise and a deep understanding of cybersecurity laws. Working with an experienced team like Horn Wright, LLP, allows you to not only defend your business but also put safeguards in place to prevent future legal trouble. 

Make the Secure Choice with Horn Wright, LLP 

Don’t wait until a cyberattack happens to seek legal protection. Our cybersecurity attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP can help you strengthen your legal defenses and navigate complex data privacy laws. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and safeguard your business from costly litigation. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we don’t just defend businesses—we help them thrive in a digital world full of threats. Our experienced attorneys have successfully represented clients in high-stakes cybersecurity litigation, providing innovative legal strategies that minimize risk and maximize protection.  

Contact our offices today to see how we can help secure the future of your business.