Helping Nonprofits Stay Secure This Safer Internet Day

In a digital world that shifts a little more each day, staying safe online has become something we all need to think about. Safer Internet Day is a chance to pause, take a breath and reflect on how we use technology. For nonprofits, this matters even more.

As artificial intelligence becomes part of our everyday digital experience, learning to use it confidently and responsibly is just as important as the tools we already know how to use.

Here are four key cyber risks that nonprofits regularly face, along with small, practical steps to help protect your organisation.

The Key Cyber Risks for Nonprofits and How to Address Them

1. Phishing and Social Engineering
Phishing emails are becoming harder to recognise because attackers now use AI to make them look natural and personal. These messages can trick staff into sharing information or clicking harmful links.
What to do: Regular staff training helps people feel confident about spotting suspicious emails. Even a simple conversation about online behaviour can make a real difference and reduce the likelihood of someone being caught off guard.

2. Ransomware Disruption
Ransomware can lock your files and bring your organisation to a standstill. Although the outcome can feel severe, the cause is often something small such as an outdated device or a single unsafe click.
What to do: Keeping devices and apps updated protects your systems from weaknesses that attackers look for. Turning on automatic updates removes the pressure and keeps your organisation safer without any extra effort.

3. Sensitive Data at Risk
Nonprofits hold donor details, volunteer information and records about the people they support. This information represents real people and real trust which makes it a valuable target for attackers.

What to do: Using secure and modern cloud tools, such as Microsoft 365, adds automatic protection in the background. Many of these tools use AI to detect unusual activity early which helps keep sensitive data safe.

4. Unsafe Websites
Passwords may seem like a minor detail but attackers target them via fake login pages that get around MFA and are now extremely convincing, which increases the risk of account theft.
What to do: Implementing web filtering is now considered a must have to prevent staff accessing harmful or malicious sites they might think are genuine. There is some web filtering included already within M365 which you might not be leveraging and for more advanced controls we can provide low cost and simple controls from Lightspeed to the modern equivalent of VPN called “SASE” that protect all staff’s internet browsing no matter where they are in the world.

In Summary

Digital risks will continue to evolve as technology changes, but so will the tools and knowledge we have to protect ourselves. By staying aware, making thoughtful choices and using the tools you are likely already licensed for, nonprofits can use AI and modern cloud services with confidence.

Safer Internet Day is a moment to commit to safer habits that support your mission and the people who rely on you and we can help you sleep that bit easier by ensuring you are aligned with best practice.

If you’re interested in learning more about how Smartdesc can help you adopt a safer online presence, please get in touch.