In today’s digital age, cyber security is more crucial than ever, especially for charities that may be seen as easy targets by cyber criminals. Although the technical aspects of cyber security can be daunting, focusing on a few key areas can significantly enhance your organisation’s security posture. Here are the top five areas charity leaders should prioritise to safeguard their organisation’s digital assets.
1) Employee training and awareness
One of the most effective ways to bolster your cyber security defences is through comprehensive employee training. Cyber attacks often exploit human error, with phishing schemes and social engineering being some of the most common methods. Ensure that your team is knowledgeable about recognizing suspicious emails, avoiding clicking on unknown links, and practicing good password hygiene. Regular training sessions and simulated phishing exercises can keep your staff vigilant and prepared.
2) Secure data handling and storage
Charities often handle sensitive information, including donor details and financial records. It is imperative to secure this data to prevent unauthorized access. Implement data encryption both at rest and in transit, and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive information. Regularly review and update your data protection policies to align with current best practices and regulatory requirements.
3) Regular software updates and patch management
Keeping your software up to date is a simple yet powerful way to protect your charity against cyber threats. Cyber criminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software. By ensuring that all your systems, applications, and devices are regularly updated with the latest patches, you can close potential entry points for cyber attacks. Automate updates where possible and establish a patch management protocol to keep your systems secure.
4) Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Passwords alone are no longer sufficient to protect against cyber threats. Implementing multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access. This could include a combination of something they know (password), something they have (a mobile device), and something they are (biometric verification). MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if passwords are compromised.
5) Develop and test an incident response plan
Despite your best efforts, cyber attacks may still occur. Having a robust incident response plan in place can minimize the damage and facilitate a swift recovery. Your plan should outline the steps to take in the event of a breach, including communication protocols, roles and responsibilities, and procedures for containing and mitigating the impact. Regularly test and update your incident response plan to ensure its effectiveness when needed.
In conclusion, improving your organisation’s cyber security does not have to be a complex or overwhelming task. By focusing on these five key areas—employee training, secure data handling, software updates, multi-factor authentication, and incident response planning—you can create a strong foundation for protecting your charity against cyber threats. Remember, a proactive approach to cyber security is essential in safeguarding the trust and support of your donors and stakeholders.