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The nonprofit and charity sector plays a critical role in providing assistance to the most vulnerable individuals in our society. Nonprofits demonstrate tireless dedication and ingenuity in their efforts to support beneficiaries, even in the face of significant challenges. However, the impact of cyberattacks on the services, funds, or confidential information of charities cannot be underestimated. Such attacks have the potential to cause severe financial and reputational damage, and they may also jeopardize the well-being of the vulnerable individuals who rely on your nonprofit for support.
With the increasing adoption of online services and digital fundraising by nonprofit and charitable organizations, the potential for cyberattacks has also increased. In 2021, 50% of NGOs reported being targeted by a cyberattack, emphasizing the rising threat faced by nonprofit organizations. High-profile incidents serve as stark reminders of the potential consequences. For instance, in September 2022, the servers of the International Committee of the Red Cross were attacked, compromising 500,000 personal data and confidential information records. Similarly, Broward Health of California, a nonprofit organization managing healthcare in Florida, experienced a data breach in January 2022, affecting 1.35 million private data records, including social security numbers.
These incidents highlight the urgent need for nonprofits to prioritize cybersecurity measures and preparedness. Nonprofits often lack the necessary security measures, making them attractive targets for hackers. Shockingly, 9 out of 10 organizations do not provide regular staff training on cybersecurity, 3 out of 4 organizations do not monitor their networks, and 4 out of 5 organizations do not have any cybersecurity plan. These statistics underscore the importance of nonprofit boards taking proactive steps to protect their organizations and the sensitive data they hold.
Nonprofit boards should conduct regular security audits and training on cybersecurity, follow good practices in data management, have an emergency preparedness plan, and have a clear vision of who does what after a breach. By prioritizing cybersecurity and implementing these measures, nonprofits can enhance their resilience and protect the vital services they provide to their communities.
The average length of interruption after ransomware attacks on organizations in the United States in 2021 was 22 days. A range of cyber incidents from data breaches to takeover of websites can plague nonprofits. Consequences are significant and costly, including identity theft, reputation harm/loss, precious funds being used to recover data, spreading politically motivated messages or malicious information, holding the organization to scrutiny due to identified vulnerabilities in its cybersecurity, disruption in the ability to carry out activities, and exposing sensitive data on donors and stakeholders.
In conclusion, the nonprofit sector plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable individuals, but it is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. The rising threat is evident from the high-profile incidents that have compromised personal data and caused financial and reputational damage. Nonprofits must prioritize cybersecurity measures and preparedness to protect their services, funds, and the well-being of those they serve. It is imperative for nonprofit boards to conduct regular security audits, provide staff training on cybersecurity, monitor networks, develop comprehensive cybersecurity plans, establish emergency preparedness plans, follow good data management practices by taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity resilience, nonprofits can safeguard their operations, maintain the trust of stakeholders, and continue their vital support to communities in need.
