“Potential data security breaches range from technical glitches to potential catastrophes,” said Mark Melodia, founder of Reed Smith’s Information Technology, Privacy & Data Security, and co-chair of the firm’s IP, Tech & Data Group. “But in each case, time is of the essence. Breach RespondeRS simplifies the application of the patchwork of state laws to let companies focus in on the real work of protecting data and preventing further harm.”
Drawing on Reed Smith’s experience helping companies through hundreds of actual and suspected data security breaches, Breach RespondeRS starts with a series of yes-no-maybe factual questions. Depending on the facts provided, Breach RespondeRS applies all relevant state laws and reports on the risk of notice being needed. The app generates and provides users a report on the requirements imposed by the applicable laws, with links to additional information and materials. These materials include a free copy of Reed Smith’s 50-state survey of data security breach laws, as well as checklists, model notifications, and other practical advice.
While Breach RespondeRS is helpful for companies in any industry trying to better understand their obligations, Reed Smith plans to release subsequent versions specific to highly regulated industries. Next up, Paul Bond, co-practice leader of Reed Smith’s Information Technology, Privacy & Data Security Group, will work to develop a version of Breach RespondeRS for US financial institutions with lead coder Anthony J. Ford, a member of the firm’s Blockchain Initiative and formerly a computer scientist for the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory where he studied artificial intelligence and machine learning.
“Breach RespondeRS is a great example of Reed Smith driving progress through innovation," said Sandy Thomas, the Global Managing Partner of Reed Smith. “We listened to our data security clients when they identified the application of these many state laws as a real headache, and used technology to create a solution. Now Reed Smith can help our clients with the many difficult judgment calls that come into play when data security breaches strike.”
Breach RespondeRS exemplifies Reed Smith’s leadership in developing technologically innovative approaches for addressing the pressing legal challenges faced by clients. The app was developed entirely in-house with lawyers in Reed Smith’s Information Technology, Privacy & Data Security Group collaborating with members of the firm’s Knowledge Management, IT, Practice Support and Business Development teams.
About Reed Smith’s Data Privacy & Security Group
With more than 80 attorneys throughout the US and Europe, Reed Smith’s Data Privacy & Security Group advises on the full array of data-related compliance and risk management across this area’s cutting-edge issues. The group’s clients include leading companies in numerous industries, including financial services, consumer products, media and entertainment, healthcare, medical device manufacturing, and many others. The group has extensive experience in performing due diligence; assessing the risk in transactions; assisting in product development, deployment and monetization; guiding cybersecurity efforts; responding to data theft, unauthorized access and ransomware attacks; and defending bet-the-company litigation.
