Like any other industry, you must protect your organization from ever-increasing cyber threats. Many non-profits handle sensitive information about individuals, and hackers bet that cybersecurity for non-profits will be less extensive than for-profit businesses with bigger bank accounts.
This assumption is part of why non-profits are seeing a 30% year-over-year increase in cyber attacks.
| “Donor information is full of high-value data, and that’s just one area that may make your non-profit attractive to hackers. Get ahead of them before you become a target.” – Chris Power, CEO of Power Consulting |
For these reasons, it’s important to uphold high-end security measures. The good news is you don’t need to spend a lot of money to implement cybersecurity best practices. All you need to do is understand your biggest risks and what you can do to prevent and mitigate them.
The Power Consulting team has extensive expertise in managing non-profit cybersecurity. That’s why we put together this guide to help you manage your biggest risks. We will explore what those risks are, the steps that you can take on your own, and when and why you should seek expert advice.
What Are The Biggest Cybersecurity Risks For Non-Profits?
Weak Passwords & No MFA
Non-profits often rely on volunteers and part-time employees who may not adhere to strict login practices such as multi-factor authentication. Attackers can easily exploit this oversight using automated tools that test stolen credentials until one works.
Insider Threats
Employees, contractors, or volunteers may misuse access, whether by mistake or with intent. Non-profits depend on many short-term workers who may not fully understand data responsibilities. In some cases, frustration or financial pressure can drive individuals to misuse access protocols.
Phishing Emails
Cybercriminals target staff through fraudulent emails designed to look authentic. Non-profits rely heavily on email communication with donors, vendors, and volunteers, which makes staff more likely to trust and click. Smaller teams often lack time for close review, so phishing attempts slip through.
37% of Non-Profits Struggle With Inefficent Technology Budgets
Let the Power Consulting team help you allocate your IT funds strategically.
Outdated Software
Non-profits often postpone system upgrades to save money. The problem is that older applications and operating systems often have flaws that attackers scan the internet to find. In fact, CloudSecureTech mentions that 70% of applications that have been in circulation for 5 or more years are at risk.
Third-Party Access
Many non-profits use third‑party digital platforms to collect donations, manage clients, or deliver services. These platforms may not have the same cybersecurity standards as your organization. Hackers may use their weaker measures to connect to your data.
Outside Targeting
Non‑profit organizations in the NGO sector face higher rates of nation‑state attacks than most industries, non- or for-profit. This sector accounts for 31% of all such attacks in the United States. These are highly sophisticated threats funded by nation-state bodies aimed at destabilizing services or stealing sensitive data.
Strategic Cybersecurity For Non-Profits: The Steps You Can Implement Now
Now that you know some of your potential risks, you need to understand what to do about them. So, here is a quick overview of the preventative measures you can take and the steps you can follow if you’re a target of any of the aforementioned threats.
| Risk | Prevention Steps | If Targeted |
| Weak Passwords & No MFA |
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| Insider Threats |
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| Phishing Emails |
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| Outdated Software |
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| Third-Party Access |
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| Outside Targeting |
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Why Should You Seek Cybersecurity Consulting For Non-Profits?
Cost-Effective Expertise
Hiring full-time cybersecurity staff is expensive and often not feasible for non-profits. Consultants deliver access to high-level expertise without long-term payroll costs. You gain the benefit of strategic planning and ongoing monitoring at a fraction of the expense.
Strategic Risk Planning
Cybersecurity risks vary depending on your programs, data types, and community reach. The right consultants will analyze your specific environment and prioritize actions based on your highest risks. This tailored approach prevents wasted effort and helps you focus resources where they matter most.
| Learn More About How You Can Protect Your IT Systems |
Compliance & Regulations
Non-profits frequently process health records, payment data, or sensitive client information that may fall under compliance regulations such as HIPAA or PCI DSS. Consultants can help verify that your policies and systems align with these requirements. If misalignments exist, they can also help you remediate them.
Vendor Oversight
Non-profits depend on software providers, donation platforms, and community partners. Consultants review those connections to identify weak points that your internal team may overlook. This reduces the chance that a third party becomes the entry point for an attack.
Training Program Development
Staff and volunteers are often the first line of defense. Consultants design training that matches your nonprofit’s culture and daily workflows. Instead of generic sessions, your team learns how to recognize and avoid risks specific to your organization or sector.
The Difference That Managed Cybersecurity For Non-Profits Can Make
Non-profits face the same level of risk as any other business, yet they often operate with fewer resources and less technical staff. Managed cybersecurity brings the benefit of dedicated experts who monitor threats and keep your systems protected so your team can focus on advancing your mission.
Beyond reducing risk, managed cybersecurity also delivers consistency. The right cybersecurity partner will introduce structured processes and advanced tools that track suspicious activity, secure donor records, and monitor third-party platforms. This level of protection is difficult to maintain on your own, especially when volunteers and staff rotate often.
However, one of the biggest reasons why not as many non-profit organizations take advantage of this service is simply cost. Technology grants designed for non-profits can help cover the cost of cybersecurity support. This way, you can fully invest in the technology products and services that you need.
| Reach Out to NYC’s Cybersecurity Leaders to Discuss Non-Profit Cybersecurity | ||
| Manhattan | Brooklyn | Queens |
Talk to Power Consulting About Cybersecurity For Your Non-Profit
Power Consulting helps non-profits protect donor and client data with managed cybersecurity. Our team monitors systems, identifies risks, and supports your staff so you can stay focused on your mission.
We also help you cover costs by guiding you through the technology grant process. We identify opportunities, prepare proposals, and support applications to improve your chances of success.
With us, you gain a cybersecurity partner and a grant advisor. Contact Power Consulting today to strengthen your security and access the funding to support it.
