Non-profits are often at a higher risk of cyber threats due to the resources and technology they use. Cyber attackers are becoming increasingly sophisticated and the damage they can cause can be devastating.
In this article, we’ll proived an overview of the cybersecurity risks that non-profits face and the types of cyber threats they need to be aware of. We will also discuss the best practices for protecting non-profits from cyber threats, including data protection, network security, vulnerability management, and more.
So if you’re a non-profit, read on to learn more about the risks you may encounter and the measures you can take to protect your organization from cyber threats.
Types of cyber Threats Facing Non Profits
Non-profits are at risk of a variety of cyber threats, ranging from malicious attacks to accidental data breaches. Since non-profits do not have the same cybersecurity protocols and processes as large businesses, they can be particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks. Here are some of the most common types of cyber threats facing non-profits:
Malware: Malware is malicious software designed to damage or steal data. Hackers can use malware to gain access to non-profit networks, allowing them to access confidential data, like donor information, employee records, and financial data.
Phishing: Phishing is a type of social engineering attack in which hackers use emails, websites, or other methods to trick users into giving up their login details or other sensitive information. Non-profits are often targeted by phishing attacks, due to their lack of cybersecurity training and resources.
Data Breaches: Data breaches can occur when hackers gain access to networks and steal sensitive data, such as customer information or employee records. Data breaches can be highly detrimental to a non-profit, causing serious financial and reputational damage.
Insider Threats: Insider threats refer to malicious activity carried out by current or former employees. This can include activities such as stealing data, sabotaging systems, or sharing confidential information.
Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: DoS attacks are designed to overwhelm a server or network, making it impossible for organizations to provide services or access information. Non-profits are often targeted by DoS attacks due to their limited resources and budget for security.
These are just a few of the cyber threats facing non-profits. Understanding these threats can help non-profits better prepare for and protect against potential security incidents.
Phishing Attacks
are a significant risk for non-profits. These types of cyber threats involve malicious actors sending emails that are designed to look legitimate, in an attempt to extract personally identifiable information (PII) from an unsuspecting recipient. The emails often contain links that direct the recipient to a fraudulent website where their information is stolen. Additionally, these emails can also contain attachments that may contain malicious code which can collect or modify information on the target’s computer. To protect against this type of attack, non-profits should educate their staff about the dangers of phishing emails and encourage them to be vigilant in verifying an email’s legitimacy before opening any links or attachments.
Malware
is one of the biggest cyber threats facing non-profits. Malicious software, or malware, is designed to access, modify, and steal confidential information, making it particularly risky to organizations like non-profits, who often house sensitive data on their networks. To minimize the risks posed by malware, non-profits should use two-factor authentication, regularly update anti-virus software, and be extra diligent when downloading unsolicited software. Additionally, non-profits should provide employees with regular security awareness training to help ensure that their staff knows how malware works and how to identify and avoid it. By taking precautions like these, non-profits can ensure that their data and networks are safe from malicious software.
Denial-of-Services Attacks
(DoS) pose a significant threat to non-profits, as they can cause the organization’s website, services, and network to be inaccessible. Although DoS attacks do not involve data theft, they carry serious risks depending on the nature of the non-profit. For instance, an attack could disrupt critical services or slow operations. Additionally, the attack could be used to divert attention away from a more devastating attack that actually steals data or corrupts systems. Therefore, non-profits should consider investing in technical solutions and properly training personnel to identify and prevent these types of attacks.
Cybersecurity Best Practices for Non-Profits
When running a non-profit, you must protect your organization’s private data, accounts, and financials from cyber threats. To help ensure the security of your organization, there are certain cyber security best practices you should implement.
1. Establish a Cyber Security Policy: It’s important to create a cyber security policy that outlines security practices, procedures, and responsibilities within the organization. Review and regularly update the policy to make sure it’s up to date with the latest security best practices.
2. Train Your Staff: Ensure that all staff members are aware of your cyber security policies. Provide ongoing training on cyber security measures and best practices, and encourage staff to report any potential risks or breaches.
3. Monitor Your Network: Use network-monitoring software to detect and respond to any security threats that may occur.
4. Secure Your Website: Consider using secure web hosting for your website and encrypting any confidential data you may have.
5. Backup Data: Make sure to regularly back up your organization’s information to protect against data loss and other cyber threats.
6. Install Antivirus Software: Utilize antivirus software to identify and remove any malicious software from your organization’s computers.
7. Use Strong Passwords: Educate your staff to use secure passwords and never share them with anyone.
By following these cyber security best practices, non-profits can better protect their organization from cyber threats and the associated risks. Keep in mind that cyber security is an ongoing and evolving process and that regular reviews and updates to the security policy should be conducted in order to keep your organization safe.
Data Protection
is an essential part of protecting non-profits from cyber threats. Non-profits need to be aware of the risk their data is exposed to and how this data can be compromised. Regular data backups, the use of strong passwords, and encryption of sensitive data are just some of the measures that non-profits can take to better protect their private information. Additionally, non-profits should also review their data storage policies and procedures, and consider implementing third-party security software to further enhance security. Taking these steps can help non-profits protect themselves from cyber threats and keep their data safe.
Network Security
For non-profits, network security is key to preventing cyber threats. Organizations should be aware of the risks associated with not having a secure network, such as data breaches and other cyber-attacks. Companies should make sure they have a secure network in place so that their data and systems are protected. They should also use firewalls and other security systems to further protect their networks. Additionally, non-profits should regularly review their networks and make necessary changes to ensure that their security is up to date.
Vulnerability Management
is an important aspect of protecting non-profits from cyber threats. It involves identifying, managing, and mitigating potential risks associated with their digital assets. By proactively monitoring networks and systems, organizations can identify and address any security concerns and vulnerabilities before they become a problem. They should also assess the effectiveness of their security measures on a regular basis and be prepared to take swift action in the event of a security breach. It is essential that non-profits have the necessary tools and protocols in place to protect themselves and their data from any potential risks.
Secure Authentication
is one of the biggest cyber threats facing non-profits. Malicious software, or malware, is designed to access, modify, and steal confidential information, making it particularly risky to organizations like non-profits, who often house sensitive data on their networks. To minimize the risks posed by malware, non-profits should use two-factor authentication, regularly update anti-virus software, and be extra diligent when downloading unsolicited software. Additionally, non-profits should provide employees with regular security awareness training to help ensure that their staff knows how malware works and how to identify and avoid it. By taking precautions like these, non-profits can ensure that their data and networks are safe from malicious software.
Data Backup
is an essential step in protecting non-profits from cyber threats. It is important to create backups of all data on a regular basis just in case a malware attack or other event results in data loss. Keeping multiple copies of data off-site can help to reduce the risks associated with data breaches and ransomware attacks. Doing this in a cloud-based solution is a great way to ensure that data is secure and accessible in the event of an attack. Organizations should also consider using a data backup service, which can help to ensure that their data is always available and secure.
Conlusion
In conclusion, it is critical for non-profits to understand the cyber threats they face, and to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their data. By understanding the types of threats they face, implementing appropriate security protocols, and backing up their data, non-profits can help to ensure their operations remain secure. Implementing Cybersecurity best practices, such as secure authentication, patch management, and vulnerability management, are key to protecting non-profits from cyber threats and should be prioritized. Non-profits should ensure there is a secure communication system, and that all data is encrypted, to protect against cyber-attacks. With the right processes in place, non-profits can stay secure and keep their focus on their mission of providing essential services to their communities.
In a world where the internet connects everything, cybersecurity has never been more critical.
While having IT services and updated software and hardware is important, it is still critical to understand that today’s hackers target human behavior through social engineering hacks.
Thankfully there is training, software, and help available for individuals and small businesses!
Straight Edge Technology highly recommends you partner with an IT service provider if you are a small business. Even if you have your own IT department, it is good to receive coaching and another set of eyes on your company’s security.
We offer support for a variety of industries including:
If your business is looking for IT services in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, or the surrounding cities in Texas, then contact our team at Straight Edge Technology today.
We would love to talk with you, discuss your company’s goals, and plan how your IT can work for you in growing your business!
