6 steps to building a holistic security strategy for your nonprofit

In the past, cybersecurity and privacy were often low on the list of priorities for Non-Profits. But, as cyberthreats have increased so have the risks of ignoring those threats. Breaches, compromised data, and cyberattacks can put vulnerable beneficiaries at risk, disrupt Non-Profit operations and services, expose them to liability, and tarnish the reputation they have so painstakingly built.

Determining the best approach to security gets more difficult as attacks grow more sophisticated, staff and volunteers use a wider array of devices and applications, and data flows into and out of your organization through more channels. And don’t think small organizations are smaller targets for data breaches. The risk is often higher for small organizations because they have fewer safeguards in place.

Many recent data hacks have generated a demand for more regulations around data security. One major example is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which applies to organizations that operate in Europe.

Leaders of Non-Profits have to balance these challenges with the need to collaborate, innovate, and further your mission in the most cost-effective way possible. You need a multifaceted security approach that constantly protects all endpoints, detects early signs of a breach, and responds before damage occurs. And no matter how strong your defenses are, preventive measures are no longer sufficient. You also need to adopt an “assume breach” posture that includes detection and response measures.