7707. Cybersecurity and Privacy Compliance

As cyber threats grow in scale and sophistication, organizations face increasing legal and regulatory challenges in securing sensitive data and responding to breaches. This course offers a practical, compliance-driven approach to cybersecurity, focusing on how lawyers can help organizations navigate security frameworks, regulatory obligations, and incident response. Unlike traditional data privacy courses, which emphasize privacy rights and data protection laws, this course centers on security fundamentals and governance, including the CIA triad (confidentiality, integrity, and availability), risk management, and compliance with cybersecurity standards. We’ll explore frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, SOC 2, and CIS controls, as well as sector-specific regulations like GLBA, HIPAA, and the SEC’s cybersecurity rules. Through case studies of enforcement actions and real-world breaches, students will learn how to assess security risks, implement compliance strategies, and support organizations in responding to cyber incidents. Key topics include: Legal and regulatory requirements for cybersecurity governance and risk management; Incident response and breach notification obligations under U.S. and global laws; Cybersecurity frameworks and best practices for compliance; The role of legal counsel in cyber investigations and regulatory enforcement; Understanding threat landscapes and security fundamentals relevant to compliance; and Coordination with security teams, regulators, and external stakeholders during a breach. By the end of this course, students will have a strong foundation in cybersecurity compliance, equipping them to advise on security risks, incident response, and regulatory requirements without needing a technical background. This course complements, rather than overlaps with, existing data privacy courses by focusing on security, governance, and legal risk mitigation in a cyber-driven world, and it is recommended that students also take those courses where offered.