Client data protection and compliance requirements for law firms, accounting firms, consulting companies, and other professional service providers.
Massachusetts has a thriving professional services sector including major law firms, accounting firms (Big Four presence), management consulting, and specialized service providers. These firms handle sensitive client data including financial records, legal documents, personal information, and confidential business information. Professional service firms must implement robust data security programs to protect client confidentiality and comply with Massachusetts regulations.
All companies in Massachusetts, including those in the professional services sector, must comply with Massachusetts data security and privacy regulations:
Pro Tip: Start with 201 CMR 17.00 - Massachusetts' foundational data security regulation that applies to all businesses handling personal information of Massachusetts residents.
These frameworks are legally required for professional services companies. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties, fines, and legal consequences.
Standards for the Protection of Personal Information of Residents of the Commonwealth
Massachusetts comprehensive data security regulation requiring businesses to protect personal information of Massachusetts residents.
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 93H - Notification of Security Breaches
Massachusetts law requiring notification of security breaches involving personal information.
While not legally mandatory, these frameworks represent industry best practices for professional services companies. Implementing these can improve security posture, build customer trust, and provide competitive advantages.
An Act establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
Pending Massachusetts comprehensive privacy law establishing consumer rights to know, access, correct, delete, and opt-out of data sales. Includes complete ban on sale of sensitive data and minors data.
National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework Version 2.0
Voluntary framework providing guidance for organizations to manage and reduce cybersecurity risk through a common language and systematic approach.
Information security, cybersecurity and privacy protection — Information security management systems — Requirements
International standard specifying requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS), with risk-based approach to protecting information assets.
Service Organization Control 2: Trust Services Criteria for Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy
Voluntary examination framework reporting on controls at service organizations relevant to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, or privacy, conducted by licensed CPAs following AICPA attestation standards.
Additional frameworks that may apply depending on your specific business operations, client requirements, or industry partnerships.
Follow this recommended sequence to achieve compliance as a Massachusetts professional services company.
Begin with 201 CMR 17.00 (data security) and M.G.L. c. 93H (breach notification). These apply to all Massachusetts businesses and form the foundation of your compliance program. Prepare for MDPA compliance (effective 2025).
Address all mandatory frameworks for the professional services sector. These are non-negotiable legal requirements with enforcement and penalties.
Strengthen your security posture with recommended frameworks. While not mandatory, these can differentiate your company, win customer trust, and may become requirements for certain contracts or partnerships.
Compliance is not a one-time project. Maintain ongoing monitoring, conduct regular assessments, update policies as regulations change, and train employees continuously. Use MyRHC to track your compliance status and stay informed of regulatory updates.
Get started with MyRHCMyRHC provides comprehensive tools and guidance for Massachusetts professional services companies to navigate complex compliance requirements.