Since most businesses rely on technology, providing technology services has become big business. Technology companies provide goods, services and expertise that can increase efficiency, productivity and profitability. These businesses may involve:
- System / network development and administration
- Application and website programming and design
- Hardware installation and repair
- Website hosting, maintenance and optimization
- Information Technology consulting, staffing and training
- Project management
- Consulting
Technology companies face the same risks as other businesses, so traditional insurance coverages are required, such as general liability, property, automobile and workers compensation insurance. However, additional insurance coverage may also be necessary to address the unique risks facing technology companies.
For example, many technology companies do not believe they need Errors & Omissions (Professional Liability) insurance. The reality is that technology companies, just like doctors and lawyers, can be held liable for errors and omissions committed in the performance of their professional services.
Unfortunately, a traditional E&O policy may not protect against many of the risks unique to technology companies. This is why technology-specific insurance is needed to cover technology-specific risks. To ensure adequate insurance coverage, technology companies should look for an E&O policy that, at a minimum:
- Broadly defines “Computer Technology Services”
- Provides coverage for failure to prevent unauthorized access to or use of any electronic system or program of a third party
- Provides coverage for unauthorized, corrupting or harmful pieces of code, including, computer viruses, worms and Trojan Horses
- Covers personal injury claims alleging wrongful entry, wrongful eviction, wrongful detention, false arrest, false imprisonment, libel, slander or defamation, advertising injury or violation of any right of privacy
- Provides sufficient coverage limits
The right E&O policy lets technology companies focus on their business knowing that they are protected in the event of a claim. And, since clients are increasingly requiring proof of E&O insurance from their technology vendors, an E&O policy may also create new opportunities.
Given the complexity of the risks facing technology companies, evaluating insurance needs and options is not always easy. For example, in addition to E&O insurance, technology companies may also need coverage for cyber liability claims, including data security breaches, which are becoming more common.
An experienced insurance agent can guide you through the process of protecting your technology company. If you would like to learn more about insuring a technology company, contact us.
If you would like to learn more about preventing data security breaches, take our online course Information Risk Management: Strategies for Preventing and Mitigating Information Security Breaches.
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