60% of Non-Profits don’t have an organizational digital policy that addresses cyber risks. The good news is it’s not too late to get started on this important initiative. The bad news? It will take some time and effort. But the payoff is worth it. Non-Profit organizations are increasingly vulnerable to data breaches, ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and other online threats.

As a result, many organizations are now investing in cybersecurity programs to protect their networks from these dangers. But, for most Non-Profit organizations, cybersecurity isn’t just about technology; it’s also about people—specifically, volunteers who often handle sensitive information.

This blog discusses cybersecurity issues facing Non-Profits, including how they can protect their data from hackers, phishers, and other malicious actors.

Cybersecurity in the Non-Profit Sector

Common Non-Profit Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity is a major concern for Non-Profit organizations. However, the threat landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade, and now hackers are targeting charities and other Non-Profits at record rates.

Non-Profits are often overlooked when it comes to cyber security. They don’t always prioritize their systems or budgets, which puts them at risk. Let’s look at some common threats faced by Non-Profits, along with solutions to prevent attacks from happening in the first place.

Malware

Ransomware attacks are growing rapidly. This type of malware locks down computers and demands money to release them. Victims must pay up or lose access to their files. In 2017 alone, cybercriminals demanded $209 million in ransom payments.

There are many different types of ransomware out there. Some encrypt data, while others destroy it. Most of the time, victims don’t know they’ve been hit until days later. If you’re unsure whether your computer is infected, try running a free scan. If you see anything suspicious, contact your IT team immediately.

Phishing

Phishing is a type of cybercrime that tricks people into handing over sensitive data such as passwords and credit card numbers. Some phishers send out fake emails that look very similar to those from well-known companies. These emails often include malicious attachments that contain malware designed to steal login credentials and financial information.

Don’t open attachments unless they come directly from someone you trust. If you do receive a suspicious email, contact the sender immediately.

SQL Injection

A SQL injection occurs when a malicious actor inserts code into a database query string. This allows them to access information stored in the database without authorization. The attacker uses a combination of text, numbers, and special characters to manipulate the query string.

The attackers are able to do this because the web application accepts input from the end user, such as usernames and passwords. Once the attacker gains unauthorized access to the database, they can use it to perform actions like deleting records, modifying records, changing account balances, etc.

If your organization stores credit card information, social security number, or bank account information, a SQL injection exploit could allow the attacker to steal that information. This type of attack is very common; most organizations store confidential information in databases.

If you don’t take steps to prevent SQL injections, attackers can easily compromise your system.

Password Attacks

Penetration testing is an ongoing practice for most companies. However, there are many different types of pen tests, each designed for specific purposes. In addition, there are many different ways to conduct a pen test.

A pen test aims to uncover weaknesses within an organization’s network infrastructure. These weaknesses could include weak passwords, outdated software, unpatched systems, misconfigured firewalls, etc. Once identified, these weaknesses must be corrected before someone else exploits them. A great way to do this is by conducting periodic pen tests.

So What Can Your Non-Profit do to Protect Itself Against Cyberattacks?

Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and hackers are targeting Non-Profit organizations. Here are some tips for protecting your Non-Profit organization against cyberattacks.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) uses multiple methods to verify identity. This includes something you know, like a password. Something you are, like a fingerprint, and something you possess, like a security token. In addition to verifying identity, it prevents unauthorized people from accessing sensitive data.

Non-Profits should consider enabling MFA because it protects against phishing attacks. Phishing is an act of sending fraudulent emails that look authentic and luring unsuspecting users into giving up personal information. Scammers often use these types of attacks to steal money and credit card numbers.

In 2016, hackers stole $81 million worth of donations from Non-Profit organizations. To make matters worse, some of those organizations had enabled single-factor authentication, meaning only one method was required to log in. As a result, hackers could simply use stolen credentials to gain access to the system.

Phishing is just one example of why Non-Profits should consider implementing MFA. Other examples include preventing employees from accessing confidential documents, protecting financial transactions, and securing email accounts.

Do Not Reuse Passwords Across Devices

Using the same passwords across multiple online accounts makes you vulnerable to hackers. Hackers could steal your personal data if they gain access to one of your accounts. A recent research found that over half of people reuse passwords across multiple sites. This is especially true among those under 25. You are at risk if you are using the same password for your work email address, bank account, social media site, etc.

A password manager helps you remember strong, unique passwords for each account. You can even generate random passwords for each site. After logging into your password manager, enter the username and password for the site you want to sign up for. Then select the option to automatically fill out the form fields for you. Your password manager will generate a new password for you. You can now save it to your list of saved usernames and passwords.

If you don’t know what type of password manager to use, here are some suggestions: LastPass, Dashlane, Keeper Password Manager, and Roboform.

Use Encryption

Encryption software encrypts files, folders, and entire drives, making them unreadable without the proper key. This prevents hackers from accessing your personal information even if they gain access to your computer.

You can use encryption to ensure that sensitive documents remain secure while traveling over public networks such as the Internet. For example, if you want to send confidential information via email, you can use encrypted messages.

Encryption software can be used to protect data stored on local hard drives, USB flash drives, external hard drives, network shares, cloud storage sites, and online backup services. You can find out whether your device supports encryption software by searching online.

Get Your Team Phishing Prevention Training

Phishing emails are designed to trick people into giving up sensitive data like passwords or credit card numbers. They often come from legitimate companies, but they’re actually part of a scam. You might receive one yourself if you use the same password across multiple accounts. If you do, it could make you vulnerable to hackers.

Cybersecurity experts say cybersecurity training should include technical skills and social engineering tactics. This way, employees can recognize what constitutes a real threat and how to respond appropriately. Don’t let your team fall prey to cybercriminals. Instead, educate them about the risks and provide them with proper training and tools.

Do You Need Better Cyber Security at Your Non-Profit?