Have you ever thought about how technology has irrevocably transformed the way we work and live? The fast advancements in technology have indeed brought us unmatched convenience and efficiency. However, with these innovations come potential risks, especially when dealing with sensitive data that belongs not only to us but also to the people who trust us.
The Rising Cybersecurity Threat to Nonprofits
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is more critical than ever. Unfortunately, the nonprofit sector is not immune to cyber threats. According to recent reports, cyber threats in the nonprofit sector have increased by 10% from 2019 to 2021. This rise, coupled with concerns expressed by many of our current partners at Upic, highlights the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures. These organizations have shared their struggles in managing IT security, emphasizing the importance of protecting their valuable data.
Common IT Security Issues for Nonprofits
Nonprofits handle a wealth of sensitive information, from donor details to financial data. Unfortunately, this makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Common IT security issues that nonprofits face include:
- Phishing Attacks: Successful phishing attacks can compromise donor information, leading to financial fraud or identity theft.
- Ransomware: Ransomware attacks can lock your organization’s critical data, demanding hefty ransoms for its release.
- Data Breaches: Data breaches can expose sensitive information, causing significant reputational damage and financial loss.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC): BEC attacks are increasingly sophisticated, often supported by AI tools. In 2024, the median BEC transaction cost was $50,000, with additional costs to respond and incalculable reputation impacts (2024 Verizon DBIR).
Critical Controls:
To effectively mitigate the risk of Business Email Compromise (BEC), it’s crucial to implement layered security measures. Key controls include:
- End-user training (Provided with Enhanced Security Package)
- Email filtering (Provided by default, improved in the Enhanced Security Package)
- MFA on accounts (Enabled)
- Monitor for signs of account compromise (Provided with Enhanced Security Package)
- Standard accounting controls (Accounting controls aren’t a function of IT but systems can take place to enhance preventive measures)
Introducing the Enhanced Security Package
To address these challenges, we have introduced the Enhanced Security Package. This enhanced security bundle includes everything in our existing Virtual Controller package, along with extra advanced features such as:
- Office 365 Managed Detection Response (MDR).
- Advanced Email Security.
- DNS Filtering.
- Enhanced Office 365 Backups.
- Password Management.
- Vulnerability Scanning.
These tools are designed to provide comprehensive protection against cyber threats, ensuring your organization’s IT infrastructure remains secure.
This is a comparison table that provides details about the Enhanced Security Package upgrade:
Why IT Security is a Necessity
It’s important to understand that IT security is not just an option; it’s a necessity. It’s not a matter or “If” but of “When”. Nonprofits manage vast amounts of sensitive data, making robust cybersecurity measures essential to safeguard this information. Investing in IT security helps prevent financial losses, operational disruptions, and reputational damage, allowing you to focus on your mission without worry.
Upic Solutions: Your Trusted Partner in Cybersecurity
At Upic Solutions, we deeply understand the unique challenges faced by nonprofits. With over two decades of experience serving the nonprofit sector, we have witnessed firsthand the growing cybersecurity concerns. We empathize with your mission and recognize the vital role you play in society. This is why we developed the Enhanced Security Package, our new comprehensive IT security bundle designed to provide the extra layer of protection you need.
Are you prepared to protect your nonprofit from the growing threat of cyberattacks? At Upic Solutions, we have the experience and expertise to help you navigate the complex world of cybersecurity. We are here to support your mission and ensure your organization remains secure. If you want more information about the Enhanced Security Package, cybersecurity for nonprofits, or have any other questions, please click here to fill out this inquiry form or contact us at answercenter@upicsolutions.org. We’re here to help.