MSPAlliance's Cyber Verify Certification Empowers Texas Businesses Under New Cyber Liability Law

MSPAlliance, the world’s leading industry association and certification body for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), has announced an innovative initiative that aligns perfectly with Texas's recent legislative advancement. With the new Safe Harbor Law, specifically Texas Senate Bill 2610, taking effect on September 1, 2025, MSPs and their clients can benefit significantly from MSPAlliance's Cyber Verify certification program.

Understanding the Texas Safe Harbor Law

Texas Senate Bill 2610 is a pivotal piece of legislation providing a legal safe harbor for Texas businesses under specific conditions. This law shields eligible businesses from exemplary (punitive) damages in lawsuits related to breaches of sensitive personal data, provided that they maintain a compliant cybersecurity program at the time of the breach.

The law applies to businesses with fewer than 250 employees, emphasizing the need for sound cybersecurity measures to create robust data protection frameworks. These frameworks must incorporate various administrative, technical, and physical safeguards, and adjust according to the size of the organization. The requirements can range from basic password policies and cybersecurity training for companies with under 20 employees to comprehensive recognized frameworks like NIST or ISO/IEC for those with 100 to 249 employees.

The Role of Cyber Verify

MSPAlliance's Cyber Verify program is designed to assist MSPs in meeting the requirements laid out in SB 2610. Celia Weaver, president and co-founder of MSPAlliance, highlighted that this certification route not only fosters legal compliance but also enhances the marketability of certified MSPs. By achieving this certification, MSPs can confidently demonstrate their credentials, showing that they align with the cybersecurity standards mandated by state law.

Key Advantages of Cyber Verify

1. Legal Protection: MSPs certified under the Cyber Verify program are protected from punitive damages resulting from breaches, making compliance not just an option but a necessity.
2. Credibility: Cyber Verify aligns with recognized cybersecurity frameworks, reinforcing the trust clients place in certified MSPs.
3. Competitive Edge: Certification allows MSPs to effectively market their compliance and the added protection they can offer clients, distinguishing themselves in a competitive landscape.
4. Scalability: The Cyber Verify program accommodates businesses of varying sizes, from startups to established mid-sized providers, ensuring that all can meet and maintain compliance.

The introduction of this program also positions Texas among other states, including Utah, Connecticut, Ohio, and Iowa, which have enacted similar cyber immunity laws. This shift represents a broader trend across the U.S. advocating for enhanced cybersecurity practices in the business environment.

Conclusion

As Texas MSPs prepare for the legislative changes ahead, it is crucial for those operating within or servicing clients in the state to act now. Applying for Cyber Verify certification should be a top priority ahead of the September 1, 2025, deadline. This certification not only verifies compliance but also provides a layer of legal assurance intended to protect businesses from cyber-related incidents. Through proactive measures and compliance with these new regulations, Texas businesses can navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity with confidence and clarity.

For more information on how to apply for Cyber Verify and the benefits it can provide, visit the official MSPAlliance website today. With Cyber Verify, MSPs can take significant strides towards ensuring cybersecurity excellence while safeguarding their clients' data.