{"id":535,"date":"2023-08-30T14:02:25","date_gmt":"2023-08-30T19:02:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cmitsolutions.com\/seattle-wa-1039\/?p=535"},"modified":"2025-02-17T16:18:26","modified_gmt":"2025-02-17T22:18:26","slug":"it-support-for-nonprofits-understanding-your-unique-needs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cmitsolutions.com\/seattle-wa-1039\/blog\/it-support-for-nonprofits-understanding-your-unique-needs\/","title":{"rendered":"IT Support for Nonprofits: Understanding Your Unique Needs"},"content":{"rendered":"

No matter what kind of nonprofit organization you run, chances are you\u2019re trying to be tech-forward while managing a wealth of personal information. Juggling all your daily operations\u2019 tech and security elements while also focusing on delivering quality services and growing your nonprofit can feel stressful at best \u2014 and near impossible at worst. That\u2019s why hiring outsourced IT support<\/a> for nonprofits and <\/span>cybersecurity support<\/span><\/a> is such a smart option.<\/span><\/p>\n

In this blog, we\u2019ll go over IT support for nonprofits: some of the main cybersecurity risks nonprofits encounter and how to stay protected to keep everything running smoothly.<\/span><\/p>\n

[Related: <\/b>6 Best Practices for Data Backup in the Finance Industry<\/b><\/a>]<\/b><\/p>\n

Common Cybersecurity Risks for Nonprofits<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Because nonprofits handle and create large amounts of data, they can easily be big targets for cybercriminals looking for chances to exploit and manipulate any vulnerabilities. Here are some of the most common cybersecurity risks for nonprofit organizations.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Lost or Stolen Personal Devices<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n

With so many nonprofits implementing remote or hybrid working arrangements, it\u2019s quite common for staff to use their own personal devices, like smartphones and tablets. In fact, <\/span>71% of nonprofits<\/span><\/a> let their staff members use unsecured personal devices to access work information.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While most organizations use cloud solutions for ease and accessibility, confidential data and passwords can be compromised if a device is lost or stolen.<\/span><\/p>\n

Phishing Emails<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n

Some of the most common cyberattacks are phishing scams. These phony emails pretend to be from authentic sources and often target small businesses and nonprofits. The emails then ask the recipient to click a link, download an attachment or respond with sensitive data.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With so many nonprofit staff shuffling multiple responsibilities and speaking to dozens of third parties, it can be easy to fall for this scam.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Limited Cybersecurity Knowledge<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n

Nonprofits frequently rely on volunteers and jack-of-all-trades staff to run everything from fundraising efforts and marketing to administrative duties and IT. This lack of resources and expertise \u2014 especially when it comes to cybersecurity \u2014 can make maintaining the proper security measures difficult. Without proper (and consistent) staff cybersecurity training, nonprofits create a new layer of vulnerability.<\/span><\/p>\n

No Disaster Recovery or Data-Backup Plan<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n

Nearly <\/span>70% of nonprofits<\/span><\/a> don\u2019t have documented policies and procedures in the instance of a cybersecurity attack. Without a disaster recovery or robust data-backup plan, the likely downtime your nonprofit will experience skyrockets. Make sure your organization has a well-documented and easy-to-understand plan in place to avoid losing confidential data and interrupting daily operations.<\/span><\/p>\n

[Related: <\/b>IT Procurement for Healthcare: Where To Start<\/b><\/a>]<\/b><\/p>\n

How To Stay Protected<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Increasing cybersecurity and using data-protection best practices should be high priorities for all nonprofits. Here are a few ways to stay protected.<\/span><\/p>\n

Assess Current Cybersecurity Measures<\/span><\/h3>\n

Conduct a thorough audit of your current IT support and cybersecurity strategies. This allows you to find where your organization shows weaknesses, risks and areas for improvement. Plus, an audit can help you create a plan of action.<\/span><\/p>\n

Upgrade Hardware, Software and Computers<\/span><\/h3>\n

Because older technology is far more susceptible to cybersecurity threats, it\u2019s critical to keep your hardware and computers up to date. Similarly, make sure you run software from a reliable provider and keep it current. Although monetary constraints could be preventing you from making these updates, consider how much more of a financial burden it would be to deal with a data breach \u2014 not to mention the reputational damage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Protect Your Network<\/span><\/h3>\n

Whether your nonprofit runs a hybrid or remote work environment, it\u2019s essential to protect your network. Make sure employees who handle data and confidential information away from the office protect their connection via a virtual private network (VPN) for encryption.<\/span><\/p>\n

Train Your Employees<\/span><\/h3>\n

One of the biggest vulnerabilities for nonprofit organizations is that they lack proper cybersecurity training. This is often the leading cause of cyberattacks, but you can reduce your risk. Train your employees and volunteers regularly on common mistakes, best practices and how to handle sensitive data.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hire a Managed IT Services Provider<\/span><\/h3>\n

Hiring a <\/span>managed IT services<\/span><\/a> provider like <\/span>CMIT Solutions<\/span><\/a> can lessen your stress and give you space to focus on what matters in your organization. Managed IT support for nonprofits and other it services can include vital tactics:<\/span><\/p>\n