GCHQ has warned that the charity sector is “particularly vulnerable” to cyber attacks, with rogue nations considered a specific threat. David Emm, Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky Lab commented below.
David Emm, Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky Lab:
“The threat of cyber-attacks is very real, and no business or individual is immune from online crime. Any organisation in today’s digital world is vulnerable and charities face the same risks as any other sector. Every charity with some form of online presence can be attacked – through a direct hack, ransomware, fraudulent e-mails and phishing attacks – which leaves the charity itself, its donors and other stakeholders at increased risk.
Charities are a big target for cybercriminals because they have valuable data, including personal information, which is of huge value to attackers. It can also result in the loss of funds, affect a charity’s ability to help those in need and damage its reputation. It is important that charities realise they have a responsibility to implement procedures for recognising and responding to these threats, particularly because of the vast amount of personal and financial information that they hold. Charities need to do more to educate their staff and ensure they dedicate enough time and resources as any other organisation would to improve their cyber-security and protect their assets.”
