In today’s digital age, non-profit organizations are increasingly becoming targets for cyberattacks. These attacks can have devastating consequences, risking the sensitive data of the vulnerable groups these organizations serve. From non-profits focused on human rights to community groups like the Boy Scouts, the impact of cyber threats on these entities is profound and far-reaching.
The Scope of the Problem
Non-profits often manage sensitive data, including personal information of donors, beneficiaries, and volunteers. This data, if compromised, can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and even physical danger for those involved. Despite the critical nature of their work, many non-profits operate with limited resources, often prioritizing mission-driven activities over cybersecurity measures. This creates a perfect storm for cybercriminals, who see these organizations as easy targets.
Case Studies Affecting Organizations for Children
The Boy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA), a well-known youth organization, faced a significant data breach in 2020. The breach exposed personal information of scouts and their parents, including names, addresses, and dates of birth. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of non-profits to cyberattacks and underscored the importance of robust cybersecurity practices.
Scouts Canada
In December of 2022, Scouts Canada detected a cyber-attack of the MyScouts system. The intrusion was detected by Scouts Canada’s IT team, the MyScouts system was shut down. They worked with two separate security experts to run separate Investigations; the first was to confirm what happened and who was affected by the breach. The second, to fully review any ongoing security issues and to remove any malicious code and harden the system before turning it back on.
Why Are Non-Profits Targeted?
- Limited Resources: Non-profits typically operate on tight budgets, with funds directed primarily towards their mission. This often leaves little room for investing in advanced cybersecurity measures.
- Valuable Data: Non-profits collect and store a wealth of sensitive information, from financial details of donors to personal information of beneficiaries. This data is a goldmine for cybercriminals who can exploit it for various malicious purposes.
- Lack of Awareness: Many non-profits lack awareness of the cyber threats they face. Without proper training and education, staff members may inadvertently fall victim to phishing scams or other cyberattacks.
- Outdated Systems: Limited budgets often mean outdated technology and software, which can have known vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals exploit these weaknesses to gain access to systems and data.
The Impact on Vulnerable Groups
The consequences of cyberattacks on non-profits extend far beyond financial loss. For the vulnerable groups these organizations serve, the impact can be life-altering.
Example: Human Rights Organizations
Human rights organizations often work in politically sensitive environments, advocating for marginalized communities and individuals. A cyberattack on such an organization can expose sensitive information about activists and victims, putting their lives at risk. In some cases, governments or hostile entities may use this information to target and silence dissent.
Example: Domestic Violence Shelters
Domestic violence shelters provide safe havens for individuals escaping abusive situations. These shelters collect personal information to provide necessary services. A data breach can compromise the safety of survivors, exposing their locations and personal details to their abusers.
Example: Health Non-Profits
Health non-profits, such as those focused on providing medical care and support to underserved populations, handle highly sensitive health data. A cyberattack on these organizations can lead to the exposure of medical records, potentially causing severe privacy violations and hindering access to critical healthcare services.
More Real-World Examples of Non-Profit Cyberattacks
Several high-profile cyberattacks on non-profits in recent years have highlighted the sector’s vulnerability.
The American Red Cross
In 2022, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) experienced a sophisticated cyberattack that compromised data of over 515,000 individuals receiving services from the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The attack targeted an external contractor in Switzerland storing data for the ICRC. The breach included personal details such as names, locations, and contact information of vulnerable individuals, including those separated from their families due to conflict, migration, and disaster.
Save the Children
In 2018, Save the Children Federation, a non-profit focused on improving the lives of children worldwide, suffered a phishing attack that resulted in the loss of nearly $1 million. The attackers gained access to the organization’s email system, posing as an employee to request funds for a fraudulent purchase of solar panels for health centers in Pakistan. This incident highlighted the financial and operational risks non-profits face due to cyber threats.
The Australian Council of Social Service
In 2020, the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), an organization advocating for people experiencing poverty and inequality, experienced a ransomware attack. The attack disrupted the organization’s operations and threatened to expose sensitive information about its members and stakeholders. Although ACOSS managed to recover without paying the ransom, the incident underscored the potential damage cyberattacks can inflict on non-profits.
Steps Non-Profits Can Take to Enhance Cybersecurity
While non-profits face significant challenges in implementing robust cybersecurity measures, there are steps they can take to protect their data and the vulnerable groups they serve.
1. Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
Non-profits should regularly assess their cybersecurity risks to identify potential vulnerabilities. This involves evaluating current security measures, identifying sensitive data, and understanding the potential impact of a cyberattack. Risk assessments help organizations prioritize their cybersecurity efforts and allocate resources effectively.
2. Implement Strong Access Controls
Limiting access to sensitive data is crucial in preventing unauthorized access. Non-profits should implement strong access controls, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access controls (RBAC). These measures ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information, reducing the risk of data breaches.
3. Educate and Train Staff
Employee awareness and training are vital components of a robust cybersecurity strategy. Non-profits should conduct regular training sessions to educate staff about common cyber threats, such as phishing and social engineering attacks. Training should also cover best practices for data protection, such as creating strong passwords and recognizing suspicious emails.
4. Invest in Security Solutions
While budget constraints can be a barrier, investing in essential cybersecurity solutions is critical for non-profits. This includes antivirus software, firewalls, and encryption tools to protect sensitive data. Many cybersecurity vendors offer discounts or free services to non-profits, making it easier for these organizations to access the necessary tools.
5. Develop an Incident Response Plan
Having a well-defined incident response plan is crucial for minimizing the impact of a cyberattack. Non-profits should outline clear procedures for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents. This plan should include steps for communicating with stakeholders, reporting the incident to authorities, and restoring affected systems and data.
6. Partner with Cybersecurity Experts
Non-profits can benefit from partnering with cybersecurity experts to enhance their security posture. Cybersecurity professionals can provide valuable insights, conduct vulnerability assessments, and assist in implementing robust security measures. Collaboration with experts helps non-profits stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensure the protection of sensitive data.
7. Leverage Cybersecurity Frameworks
Adopting established cybersecurity frameworks, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework or the CIS Controls, can help non-profits build a comprehensive security strategy. These frameworks provide guidelines and best practices for managing cybersecurity risks, enabling organizations to create a robust defense against cyber threats.
8. Establish a Cybersecurity Culture
Building a culture of cybersecurity within a non-profit organization is essential. This involves making cybersecurity a part of the organization’s values and practices. Leadership should emphasize the importance of cybersecurity, and employees at all levels should understand their roles in protecting data. Regular communication about cyber threats, updates on security measures, and encouraging reporting of suspicious activities are key components of fostering this culture.
9. Utilize Threat Intelligence
Non-profits can enhance their cybersecurity by staying informed about the latest threats. Participating in information-sharing initiatives, such as threat intelligence platforms or industry-specific cybersecurity forums, allows organizations to stay ahead of emerging cyber threats. By understanding current attack vectors and tactics used by cybercriminals, non-profits can better prepare and defend against potential attacks.
10. Secure Third-Party Relationships
Many non-profits rely on third-party vendors for various services, such as IT support, fundraising platforms, and cloud storage. Ensuring these vendors have robust cybersecurity practices is crucial. Non-profits should conduct due diligence when selecting vendors, require them to adhere to security standards, and regularly review their security posture. Contracts should include clauses that address cybersecurity responsibilities and incident response procedures.
Conclusion
Non-profits play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable groups and addressing societal challenges. However, the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks pose significant risks to these organizations and the communities they serve. By prioritizing cybersecurity and implementing effective measures, non-profits can protect sensitive data and ensure the continuity of their vital work.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, non-profits must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their systems and data. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and resilience, these organizations can continue to fulfill their missions and make a positive impact on society.
At Adaptive Office Solutions, cybersecurity is our specialty. We keep cybercrimes at bay by using analysis, forensics, and reverse engineering to prevent malware attempts and patch vulnerability issues. By investing in multilayered cybersecurity, you can leverage our expertise to boost your defenses, mitigate risks, and protect your data with next-gen IT security solutions.
Every device connecting to the internet poses a cyber security threat, including that innocent-looking smartwatch you’re wearing. Adaptive’s wide range of experience and tools fills the gaps in your business’s IT infrastructure and dramatically increases the effectiveness of your cybersecurity posture.
To schedule a Cyber Security Risk Review, call the Adaptive Office Solutions’ hotline at 506-624-9480 or email us at helpdesk@adaptiveoffice.ca