Cyber security might not always feel like a top priority in charities and non-profit organisations, especially when day-to-day operations are focused on delivering frontline services or managing limited resources. But as digital tools become central to how charities work, the need for strong, practical security measures becomes harder to ignore.
Non-profits often hold sensitive personal data about service users, donors, staff, and volunteers. Many rely on cloud-based tools, work with third-party platforms, and use devices in different locations. All of these introduce risks that, without proper management, can result in service disruption, reputational damage, or even legal and financial consequences.
In this guide, we explore why charities are attractive targets for cybercrime, the most common threats, and the practical steps your organisation can take to strengthen its defences.
Why Charities & Non-Profits Are at Risk
It’s a common misconception that charities, even small or low-profile ones, are unlikely to be targeted. In reality, cybercriminals often cast a wide net, looking for vulnerabilities rather than high-value brands.
Charities and Non-profits can be particularly vulnerable because of limited IT expertise, changing temporary/volunteer staff, older infrastructure, use of shared and/or personal devices, or underdeveloped policies.
This is especially true when the focus is on delivery of important front line services, and where every pound spent on tech must be justified in terms of impact. Unfortunately, attackers know this and often see these organisations as softer targets.
At the same time, many charities handle sensitive data such as case records, health information, or payment details. This makes them an attractive proposition to cybercriminals.
In many cases, the consequences of a successful attack go well beyond operational downtime. They may include breaches of trust, regulatory penalties, or disruption to services relied on by vulnerable people.
The Most Common Cyber Threats Facing Charities & Non-Profits
Understanding where the risks lie is the first step to protecting your organisation. While the tools and tactics used by attackers continue to evolve, most incidents fall into a few core categories:
Phishing and email scams
These are by far the most common threats. Staff may receive convincing-looking emails asking them to click a link, reset a password, or transfer money. If successful, attackers can gain access to email accounts or internal systems.
Ransomware attacks
This involves malicious software that locks your files or systems until a ransom is paid. Even if you have backups, the disruption can be severe, especially if case notes, financial records, or donor data are affected.
Unsecured access or stolen credentials
Shared passwords, weak logins, or the use of unsecured Wi-Fi can all allow unauthorised users to access sensitive information.
Human error
Sending information to the wrong person, using outdated devices, or accidentally clicking a malicious link are all common ways breaches occur. These are often well-intentioned mistakes, but can have serious consequences.
Malicious insiders or former staff
Occasionally, data breaches are caused by individuals inside the organisation. This may involve deliberate theft or simple failure to revoke access when someone leaves.
What’s At Stake
For charities and non-profits, the impact of a breach can be wide-reaching. Potential consequences include:
- Loss of trust among donors, beneficiaries, and partners
- Time consuming and stressful data protection investigations
- Costly fines
- Interruption to essential services
- Financial loss from fraud or recovery costs
- Long-term reputational damage
Even if no harm is intended, failure to meet basic data protection standards can still lead to serious consequences. A single incident can erode the confidence of funders, service users, or the wider public. In some cases, charities have had to suspend operations or spend months recovering from a breach.
This is not just about IT: it is about mission delivery. Without functioning systems and community trust, the impact of your work can be seriously compromised.
Practical Safeguards for Every Charities & Non-Profit
You don’t need a large IT budget or in-house cyber team to improve your organisation’s security. Many of the most effective protections are simple, affordable, and rooted in day-to-day behaviour.
Use strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Encourage staff and volunteers to use strong passwords and avoid reusing them across accounts. Where possible, turn on MFA for systems like email and file storage. A centralised password vault system can help to manage and control this.
Keep devices and software up to date
Enable automatic updates for computers, phones, and applications. This helps close known vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. A good IT support contract will include this.
Backup data securely and regularly
Backups should be encrypted and stored separately from your main systems. Test them occasionally to make sure they can be quickly and efficiently restored if needed.
Restrict access based on roles
Not everyone needs access to every system or file. Set clear permissions, and remove access when someone leaves the organisation. A documented leaver “off boarding” process will help ensure this happens.
Train your team to spot risks
Most breaches start with human error. Offer regular, informal training to help staff recognise phishing emails, understand what to do if they are unsure, and know how to report concerns. Anti-phishing software and automated ongoing training make a huge difference if your organisation can afford them as part of an ongoing support arrangement.
Use encrypted platforms for sensitive communication
Avoid sharing confidential data via unprotected email or shared drives. Many cloud tools now offer secure links or encrypted messaging options.
Embedding a Culture of Security
Technology alone is not enough. A strong security posture depends on how people think and behave. It is about creating a culture where staff and volunteers know that security is part of their role, and feel confident raising questions or concerns.
Here are a few ways to build that culture:
- Include security in onboarding processes
- Talk about risks and best practice during team meetings
- Appoint a point person (even if informal) to support others with questions
- Regularly review access rights and update policies
- Celebrate good practice when staff identify or report potential threats
Creating a security-conscious team does not require fear or heavy-handed rules. It is about confidence, awareness, and good habits that make everyone part of the solution.
Knowing When to Ask for Help
Sometimes, external support is the most efficient way to improve your organisation’s security. You might need help with carrying out a cyber security assessment, setting up secure cloud systems, providing training to your team, or responding to an incident or suspected breach.
Look for IT providers who understand the non-profit sector, can explain things clearly, and offer practical solutions aligned with your budget and needs.
A good provider will work with you to assess risks, recommend proportionate safeguards, and help build awareness across your team. Even a few hours of expert input can make a lasting difference.
Read our guide to in-house vs external IT support for charities and non-profits.
Final Thoughts
Cyber security is not a luxury or an afterthought. For non-profits and charities, it is an essential part of safeguarding the people you serve, protecting your mission, and maintaining the trust that underpins your work.
By taking small, practical steps to improve your defences and build awareness among your team, you can significantly reduce your risk.
Whether you are just getting started or reviewing systems already in place, every improvement contributes to a safer, more resilient organisation.
Security is not about being perfect. It is about being prepared, alert, and proactive. And with the right support, even the smallest charity can build strong digital foundations for the future.
Book your free consultation today to find out how your organisation could be more secure.
