Though in 2015, Charleston nonprofits are much more connected with donors, resources and other organizations than ever before, cyber security is something that is often still overlooked. However, nonprofit administrators must begin to realize that donors are more educated when it comes to network security matters and the reality of what could happen in the event of a data breach. In addition, many nonprofit organizations keep a lot of personal donor information on file — often more so than many private sector businesses. Some of this data includes:
- Credit card info,
- Donation amount and type history,
- Staff contact history and background information, and
- Information that could clue crooks into donor personality traits, opinions, spending habits and real past time activities
It’s important for nonprofit organizations to work with a competent managed services partner to design a security plan that will protect their donors, partners, paid workers and volunteers.
The right plan will help organizations:
Set appropriate permissions. Who has access to what organizational data? Many nonprofits have no security protection within their network; and any employee or guest can access even the most sensitive files. It’s important to strictly define user permissions in any business or organization.
Change information strategy. Many nonprofits store donor files and other information indefinitely. However, in 2015, it’s best to regather new data every year and destroy whatever you possibly can. Yes, market research is important, as is CRM. However, you should store the information that you must keep securely and destroy anything else that’s not crucial.
Encrypt data properly. Many software programs offer encryption. However, only a professional can help you understand what level of encryption offers your nonprofit the most security — in keeping with best practices for your industry.
Establish employee protocol. You have to teach your employees and volunteer staff how to properly deal with online information and computer files. If you don’t, they simply won’t handle these things properly; and will not keep your corporate and donor information secure. Uninformed human error coupled with underestimated criminal ability is the main reason so many data breaches have been successful.
Keep your antivirus protection, firewall and passwords updated. When you run any sort of corporation, (no matter the size), you really don’t have the time keep up with updates when they’re necessary, or change things like passwords regularly. Delegating these responsibilities is the smartest choice.
Backup your data for efficient restoration. What would happen if there was a natural disaster that destroyed your whole office? What if something man-made like a fire or water main break caused irreparable network damage? Could you restore everything from an Android or iPhone device? In 2015, many organizations can. If yours can’t, you have to ask yourself if you’ve truly taken the right steps thus far.
Contact us at Kotori Technologies to learn more about what your nonprofit needs to keep your vital corporate and donor information safe in modern times.