Helping nonprofits modernize IT and maximize security
Create integrated, efficient and manageable technology workflows. Defend against cyber threats. Protect sensitive data. And select the right tools to help your organization do what needs to get done.
The challenge:
IT landscapes are in constant evolution. Neglecting modernization can hinder progress and lead to hidden costs. Sensitive data is under constant threat and nonprofits are vulnerable to cyber attacks.
Why are nonprofits targets?
They manage sensitive information about their donors, members, ticket buyers and board members.
They often store personal, financial, or other sensitive information about donors and clients.
Cybercriminals can attack nonprofits as a way of gaining access to sensitive information about people who support the organization, or who are served by it.
Nonprofits often lack dedicated IT departments.
Budget constraints often mean that nonprofits lack the expertise and resources needed to implement and maintain robust security measures.
Nonprofits often use multiple subscription-based services and platforms to manage their fundraising, ticket sales, marketing and remote collaboration functions. Each of these third-party accounts are potential vulnerabilities to cyberattack if proper security protocols aren't followed.
Nonprofits may think their organization is too small to be attacked. Underestimating the degree of the threat can make them more susceptible to attacks.
Types of threats nonprofits face:
Malware: Computers, cell phones, or any device connected to a nonprofit's network can be vectors of attack for cybercriminals to set malicious software loose, putting sensitive information at risk.
Ransomware: Your data is held hostage until you pay a large amount of money to get it back.
Phishing attacks: Fraudulent emails that look similar to emails from trusted contacts can be used by hackers to gain access to sensitive information about the organization and its donors and clients.
Social engineering: Cybercriminals design sophisticated phishing attacks designed to get your employees to unknowingly divulge sensitive information.
Malicious employees: Unfortunately, not everyone can be trusted with sensitive information. Many data breaches occur because of an employee's intentionally negligent actions.
What can nonprofits do to encourage a greater culture of cybersecurity ?
1. Make it a priority. Nonprofit leaders must set the example from the top and commit the resources needed--time, people, dollars--to do what it takes to ensure their digital infrastructure is secure.
2. Assess where they are today. Conduct an IT audit that considers all the platforms and services in use across the organization. How secure is the data used on these platforms? What checks are in place to ensure passwords are secure, employees are alert, and data is shared and stored?
3. Get to work. Set goals for near, medium and long-term improvements. Identify sources of funding and make progress in multiple phases. Create an actionable, measurable plan for achieving those goals along a realistic timeline.
4. Document policies, plans and procedures so the entire organization understands what it takes, and the part they need to play, for the organization to be secure and responsible with the data they manage.
Our approach:
We help mission-driven organizations select the right tech stack for their business needs. Secure high-speed internet, firewalls, phones and data management are all essential to an organization’s success. We ensure a functional and secure tech stack, enabling our clients to responsibly and efficiently handle sensitive data and communicate effectively with their audiences.
Tackle Your Tech Challenges
-
Network Security & Firewalls
-
High-Speed Internet, Phone & Messaging
-
Productivity Tools & Team Workflows
Comprehensive planning, project management and ongoing support
Assessing your current infrastructure. Making recommendations based on your unique requirements and constraints. Providing options that allow you to make informed decisions. Ensuring timely procurement, onboarding and rollout. Options for ongoing support.