The Cyber Threat Landscape for Charities
The Cyber Security Breaches Survey reveals alarming statistics:
- 3 in 10 charities reported experiencing a cybersecurity breach or attack in the last 12 months.
- It is estimated that UK charities have experienced approximately 453,000 cybercrimes in the last year.
Phishing attacks remain the most common threat. These often involve deceptive emails, text messages, or calls designed to trick staff or volunteers into providing confidential information or clicking on malicious links. Other common threats include ransomware attacks, malware infections, and unauthorised access to sensitive systems.
The Impact of Cyber Attacks on Charities
Many charities are perceived as attractive targets because they often have limited resources allocated to cybersecurity, less formalised protocols, and may store valuable personal and financial data. For many organisations in the sector, even a minor cyber incident can have devastating consequences, such as the loss of sensitive donor information, financial losses, reputational damage, and disruption to service delivery.
Given these risks, taking proactive steps to strengthen cybersecurity is no longer optional — it is essential for any charitable organisation’s long-term health and credibility.
Strengthening Cyber Resilience
To combat these threats, the Charity Commission for England and Wales has updated its cybercrime guidance. This guide includes two new resources:
- Cyber Governance Code of Practice: A framework to assist charity boards in managing cybersecurity risks.
- Cyber Governance Training: Five interactive modules developed by the National Cyber Security Centre to educate trustees and staff.
By taking proactive steps now, your charity can protect its reputation, finances, and the people and communities who depend on your services. Here are some key actions to consider:
- Conduct Regular Risk Assessments: Identify potential vulnerabilities and assess the impact of different types of cyber threats on your organisation.
- Implement Strong Security Protocols: Ensure that all systems are protected with up-to-date antivirus software, firewalls, and encryption.
- Educate and Train Staff: Regularly train staff and volunteers on cybersecurity best practices, including how to recognise phishing attempts and other common threats.
- Develop a Response Plan: Have a clear plan in place for responding to cyber incidents, including steps for containment, investigation, and recovery.
- Engage with Experts: Consider partnering with cybersecurity experts to enhance your organisation’s defences and stay informed about the latest threats and solutions.
In conclusion, the findings from the UK Government’s latest Cyber Security Breaches Survey underscore the critical need for charities to prioritise cybersecurity. By adopting robust measures and fostering a culture of vigilance, charities can safeguard their operations and continue to serve their communities effectively.
For more information on the updated cybercrime guidance from the Charity Commission for England and Wales, please click here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/protect-your-charity-from-cyber-crime?utm_source=LinkedIn+&utm_medium=ccnewsletter&utm_id=LinkedIn+Newsletter
