What Accounting Firms Need to Know About AV, NGAV and MDR

In accounting, trust, accuracy and confidentiality are more than professional standards — they are the foundation of client relationships. Every tax return, payroll file and financial statement contains sensitive information that clients expect you to safeguard.

But as cyberattacks grow more sophisticated and financially devastating, relying solely on professional expertise is no longer enough. Your cybersecurity tools are just as critical as your accounting software. The way you defend your systems, data and client records directly impacts your reputation, compliance standing and financial stability.

Dawn Brolin, CPA, CFE and CEO of Powerful Accounting LLC, explained it best:
“Hackers love accountants. They love accountants more than banks, physicians or attorneys. We are the number one target for cybersecurity because we hold the key to the financial data they so desperately want.”

So how do firms protect themselves? You may have heard the terms AV, NGAV and MDR. But what do they mean, and which solution best protects client data, ensures compliance and minimizes downtime? Here’s what accounting leaders need to know.

What Is Antivirus (AV) and Why It Falls Short for Accountants

What it is:
Antivirus software (AV) is the classic tool for scanning devices and servers for known malware threats.

How it works:
AV relies on signature-based detection, meaning it can only stop threats it has already seen. Think of it as trying to apply last year’s tax code to this year’s return — outdated and incomplete.

Why it’s risky for accountants:

• Fails to catch new ransomware strains
• Doesn’t monitor endpoint behavior
• Leaves security gaps in hybrid or remote environments

Example: If a staff member opens a phishing email that installs new ransomware, basic AV is unlikely to catch it in time.

How Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV) Protects Client Data

What it is:
Next-generation antivirus (NGAV) uses AI and behavioral analysis to detect suspicious activity even from threats it has never encountered.

Why it’s better for accounting firms:

• Identifies unusual behavior like encryption or lateral movement
• Stops ransomware before it locks QuickBooks, payroll files or client databases
• Provides detailed insight into the who, what and when of a breach attempt

Example: If a malicious script tries to copy your client database, NGAV spots the suspicious behavior and shuts it down immediately.

Why Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Is the Best Option

What it is:
MDR combines NGAV technology with 24/7 monitoring by cybersecurity experts who detect threats and respond in real time.

Why accounting firms rely on MDR:

• Around-the-clock monitoring — even during tax season
• Immediate threat containment and remediation
• Supports compliance with IRS, GLBA and state-level regulations
• Reduces strain on internal IT or outsourced support teams

Example: If attackers attempt to steal tax records at 2 a.m., MDR identifies the unusual behavior and blocks the attempt. A cybersecurity engineer validates the block and takes any additional appropriate action to safeguard your data. You are alerted of the activity and continue to rest peacefully knowing your data is secure.

Cybersecurity Threats Facing Accounting Firms Today

Accounting firms are prime cybercrime targets because:

• They manage high-value financial data
• They rely on remote systems and client portals
• They must comply with strict data security regulations

The consequences of a breach include:

• Loss of client trust
• Regulatory fines
• Expensive downtime
• Legal liability

Traditional antivirus is no longer enough. NGAV strengthens defenses but MDR provides the most comprehensive protection — real-time monitoring, rapid response and compliance support.

Choosing the Right Protection for Your Accounting Firm

If your firm still relies on basic antivirus, now is the time to upgrade. Protecting client data, maintaining compliance and avoiding downtime requires more advanced solutions.

Ready to modernize your cybersecurity? Connect with our specialists today to find the right protection for your firm.