Small businesses and nonprofits are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals precisely because they often lack sophisticated security systems. According to the Verizon Business 2025 Data Breach Investigation Report, small businesses are nearly four times as likely to be attacked as larger organizations. With nonprofits experiencing a 30% year-over-year increase in weekly cyberattacks in 2024, cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival.
“Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology—it’s about protecting the mission, the people, and the trust that nonprofits work so hard to build. The basics matter, but so does leadership: when boards and executives ask the right questions and set clear expectations, they turn risk into resilience.”
— Greg Bugbee, CISSP, CISO, Novus Insight
The financial implications of cyberattacks are devastating for smaller organizations. The average cost of a data breach can reach up to $2 million, including data recovery, legal fees, and reputational damage. Ransomware accounts for 88% of breaches in smaller organizations compared to only 39% in large businesses. For nonprofits with tight budgets dedicated to their missions, these costs can be catastrophic.
Creating a strong cybersecurity foundation doesn’t require massive budgets. Start with implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all accounts, which adds a critical extra layer of security. Enforce strong password policies requiring complex, unique passwords of 16 or more characters. Keep all software and systems updated to protect against known vulnerabilities. Regular security audits help identify and address vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.
Your team is both your greatest vulnerability and your strongest defense. Regular training on topics like identifying phishing emails, creating strong passwords, and recognizing suspicious activities transforms employees from risk factors into security assets. Consider that cybercriminals are now using AI-generated voice impersonation and sophisticated text messaging scams. Fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious activities without fear of blame is crucial.
