Nonprofit organizations serve as the backbone of countless communities, delivering vital services and championing causes that inspire change. However, their noble missions often make them unexpected targets for cybercriminals.
In recent years, cyber-attacks on nonprofits have surged, with many organizations struggling to combat cyber threats. A report by Nonprofit Tech For Good stated that 27% of nonprofit organizations worldwide fell victim to a cyber-attack in 2023.
For nonprofits, the consequences of a breach are more than financial: they can disrupt operations, erode trust, and jeopardize the very missions they aim to achieve.
The Cyber Threat Landscape Facing Nonprofits
Nonprofits face a range of cyber threats, including:
- Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals exploit untrained staff through phishing scams. Philabundance, a Philadelphia-based food bank, lost $1m to malicious actors who sent a fake invoice to the organization.
- Credential Theft: Nonprofits often rely on outdated systems, making it easier for attackers to exploit weak passwords and unpatched vulnerabilities.
- Ransomware Attacks: Malware that locks down systems or steals information, offering return of the operations or data for a monetary fee. Water for People was attacked by a ransomware group that threatened to publish stolen information unless a ransom of $300,000 was paid
Why Nonprofits are Attractive Targets for Cybercriminals
Several factors make nonprofits especially appealing to cyber adversaries:
While nonprofits may not have the financial resources of corporations, they hold a wealth of sensitive data. This includes donor information (such as credit card details, Social Security Numbers, and personal information), beneficiary records, and organizational communications. This data can be sold on the dark web or used for identity theft.
Many nonprofits lack formal cybersecurity policies, leaving them vulnerable to threats like phishing emails, weak passwords, or inconsistent software updates. This gap is often exacerbated by staff who may not have formal training in cybersecurity best practices.
Nonprofits frequently prioritize their resources toward fulfilling their mission, often leaving little room for robust IT infrastructure or security measures. Without dedicated cybersecurity personnel or cutting-edge tools, they are more susceptible to breaches.
Nonprofits often have a strong public presence and are seen as reputable organizations. Cybercriminals exploit this trust, leveraging the nonprofit’s credibility in phishing scams targeting donors or beneficiaries. A successful attack can not only compromise the organization but also its network of supporters.
The Consequences of Cyber-Attacks on Nonprofits
Cyber-attacks can have a devastating financial impact on nonprofits, which often operate on tight budgets. A single ransomware attack could require thousands of dollars in payments to regain access to critical data, while the cost of forensic investigations, legal fees, and IT recovery can quickly escalate. Additionally, nonprofits may face penalties for non-compliance with data protection regulations, further straining their resources.
Trust is the cornerstone of nonprofit operations. Donors and beneficiaries place their confidence in these organizations to protect their sensitive information and fulfill their missions. A data breach can erode this trust, leading to a decline in donor contributions and support. News of a cyber-attack can tarnish a nonprofit’s reputation for years, making it difficult to rebuild credibility.
Cyber-attacks don’t just cost money—they disrupt the very operations nonprofits rely on to make a difference. Whether it’s a ransomware attack locking mission-critical systems or phishing scams compromising staff email accounts, the fallout can delay or entirely derail programs. For nonprofits delivering essential services, this can mean failing to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
Cybersecurity for Nonprofits: Proactive Measures and Solutions
The first step to building a strong cybersecurity posture is understanding where the vulnerabilities lie. Nonprofits should:
- Conduct regular cybersecurity audits to identify gaps in their defenses.
- Implement penetration testing to simulate attacks and evaluate system resilience.
- Prioritize addressing outdated systems, weak passwords, and unmonitored access points.
To defend against cybersecurity risks, nonprofits must establish layered protections:
- Cybersecurity Services: Managed security service providers (MSSPs) offer 24/7 threat monitoring, incident response, and specialized expertise.
- Employee Training: Equip staff with the knowledge to identify phishing attempts and other common attack vectors.
- Advanced Tools: Deploy firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint security solutions to safeguard networks and devices.
Effective cybersecurity doesn’t have to break the bank. By reallocating existing resources and leveraging managed IT services, nonprofits can:
- Focus on cost-efficient solutions that provide maximum impact.
- Seek grants or partnerships specifically aimed at bolstering cybersecurity efforts.
- Use tools like cost calculators to plan IT expenses transparently, ensuring that every dollar spent supports their mission.
Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Posture with Specialized Assistance
Nonprofit organizations operate in a challenging landscape, balancing limited resources with the need to make a meaningful impact. Proactive cybersecurity measures are essential for nonprofits to defend themselves against these threats.
At CTS, we’re committed to empowering nonprofits with the tools and expertise they need to stay secure. From conducting vulnerability assessments to implementing managed IT services, we can help you strengthen your cyber defenses without compromising your budget.
