Keeping LAOL secure: Introducing Multi Factor Authentication

To increase the security on the SLAB systems we will be introducing Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) for users of Legal Aid Online (LAOL).

Our move follows some very high-profile cyber attacks, which seriously affected organisations’ operations and caused major financial implications.

We have taken the decision to adopt the Scottish Government’s ScotAccount as a secure and simple way to access our online service

What does this mean for you?

Everyone logging into LAOL will be required to use ScotAccount – solicitors, support staff and law accountants.

Please ensure other members of your firm are made aware of this if they don’t receive email updates from us.

What is ScotAccount?

The ScotAccount service is already used by a number of government services. You may already have signed up to use ScotAccount to access services such as applying for a Level 1 disclosure with Disclosure Scotland or a disclosure for the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme

ScotAccount is one account which allows you to sign into a variety of services.

It will verify your identity when using our service. This will enhance the protection already on our systems.

When are we moving to MFA?

We are aiming to implement the change towards the end of the first quarter in 2026.

Preparing for the move to MFA

Over the next few months, we will issue communications to:

• keep you up to date on progress
• advise you on what you require to do for the change to MFA
• confirm the date the change will be effective from.

A dedicated webpage will be set up on our website with information you need to prepare the move to MFA.

We will create and release guidance videos to help you check your details are up to date, how to update them if required and the new login process.

Closer to the implementation date we will hold webinars on the MFA login process and answer any questions.

More information

If you have any questions in the meantime, please email us at MFA@slab.org.uk.