Cyber Liability vs. Errors and Omissions Insurance

Jon Davies
04-Jul-2023 18:08:00

In today's digital age, technology is the backbone of most businesses; it's certainly the backbone of InsuredHQ and our customers. Most modern insurance businesses are now also technology businesses.

Technology plays a critical role in software development, website design, and telecommunications services. However, technology isn't perfect, and errors can occur, leading to financial losses for your clients. If you're a technology provider, you could be held responsible for these losses, so having the right insurance coverage is crucial.

Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance 

Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance safeguards your business against various scenarios that could lead to financial liabilities. If clients file claims against you for errors, omissions, negligence, or product failures, this coverage can help cover the legal fees, settlements, or judgments resulting from such claims. Here are some examples of situations where this insurance can come to your rescue:

  1. Software Glitches: If the software you sold to a client contains glitches that result in losing a month's billing data, your client may seek compensation for their financial losses. Technology E&O insurance can help cover the legal fees and related costs in defending against such claims.
  2. Equipment Malfunction: Imagine installing equipment that prevents customers from receiving online orders for 48 hours. Your client's business could suffer significant financial setbacks, and they might hold you responsible. With Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance, you can mitigate the costs of defending against these claims.
  3. Data Backup Failure: Your cloud-based data services might fail to back up critical data, which a customer cannot recreate. This loss of valuable information can lead to substantial financial damages for your client. Technology E&O insurance can provide the necessary coverage to protect your business from potential lawsuits arising from such incidents.
  4. Design Similarity: If you design a website for a customer that resembles a competitor's site too closely, your client might accuse you of intellectual property infringement. Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance can help cover the legal expenses of defending against these claims.

Understanding the Difference: Cyber Liability vs. Errors and Omissions Insurance

While Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance provides crucial protection for your business, it's important to differentiate it from cyber liability insurance. Cyber liability insurance protects your business against cyberattacks and accidental data leaks, whereas Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance addresses errors, omissions, negligence, and product failures.

For instance, if you rush production to meet a client's deadline and your product has a glitch, resulting in financial losses for your client, Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance can help cover the associated claim. On the other hand, cyber liability insurance would come into play if your business experienced a data breach or faced legal action due to compromised customer information.

 

Working with Contracts

While Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance provides valuable protection, it's important to note that many E&O policies don't cover actions that breach a contract. Since technology professionals often work with clients who sign contracts and license agreements, having general liability and professional liability coverages is crucial to ensure complete protection.

 

Secure Your Business Today

Technology Errors and Omissions Insurance is essential if your tech company wants to ensure a robust risk management plan. Don't leave your business vulnerable to financial losses from errors, omissions, negligence, or product failures. 

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