Quick Takeaways
- Cyber threats against nonprofits are underreported and difficult to quantify due to inconsistent data collection and reporting practices.
- Attacks on nonprofits, particularly email and phishing schemes, are increasing significantly, with a 35% rise in email attacks and a 50% increase in phishing over the past year.
- Despite the lack of comprehensive data, experts recognize nonprofits as the second-most targeted industry for cyberattacks and emphasize they are often treated as collateral damage.
- Nonprofits urgently need more than funding; they require education, training, and serious cybersecurity strategies to effectively protect themselves amid ongoing threats.
Why Nonprofit Cyber Incidents Go Underreported
Many cybersecurity experts say it is hard to see how many cyberattacks target nonprofits. This is because there are fewer rules requiring these organizations to report breaches. As a result, the real threat remains hidden. Without good data, it is difficult to understand how often nonprofits face cyber dangers. This lack of information makes it harder for them to explain their needs or ask for more safety support.
The Challenges of Data and Support for Nonprofits
Experts note that cybersecurity incidents often get recorded as damage caused to third parties, not directly to nonprofits. The data that exists is often incomplete or not specific enough. Meanwhile, nonprofits generally try to improve security by spending money. However, they also need education, training, and recognition as serious businesses. Waiting for perfect data to act is impossible; nonprofits must get help now to protect their work and the people they serve.
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