For the voluntary and community sector, this is especially important. Charities are increasingly reliant on technology, making them a target for cyber crime. A successful attack - such as stolen funds, data breaches, or loss of systems - can be devastating both financially and reputationally.
This month, we’re sharing events, training and resources to help you and your organisation build stronger cyber resilience.
1) Events & training
1.1) NEW Cyber Awareness video series
The Northern Ireland Cyber Security Centre (NICSC) has launched the first and second in a new series of short Cyber Awareness videos. They are short 2-minute videos that are well worth a watch.
Watch the videos:
Password Security Best Practices | Biteable
More videos will follow over the coming months.
1.2) Webinar: Securing your organisation - 9 October
Join our free online session to learn practical steps to protect your organisation against cyber attack, manage risks, and build resilience. Delivered with The Cyber Crime Centre, NICSC, and Bytes.
Book your FREE place here: Securing your organisation with The Cyber Crime Centre, NICSC and Bytes
Back to top2) Quick wins: Reduce your risks of cyber crime
Even small actions can significantly reduce your risk of cyber crime. Start with these four key steps:
- Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Use strong passwords - long, random, unique and include all four character types (uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols).
- Update software
- Recognise and report phishing - be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for personal information. Report phishing attempts and delete the message.
These simple actions are a great starting point. For more in-depth guidance, explore the resources below.
Back to top3) Guides & Resources
3.1) From NI Cyber Security Centre (NICSC)
NICSC has developed a range of practical guides to help individuals and organisations improve their cyber security:
3.2) From National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
The Cyber Security: Small Charity Guide offers free, simple advice tailored to charities, helping you protect against the most common types of cyber crime. It covers:
- Backing up your data
- Keeping your smartphones and tablets safe
- Preventing malware damage
- Avoiding phishing attacks
- Using passwords to protect your data
Read the Cyber Security: Small Charity Guide
The NCSC also provides:
- Cyber Incident Support - The NICSC have advice and guidance on how to deal with a cyber incident - please have a look at this to prepare yourself should you experience an attack.
- Free Cyber Action Plan - Answer a few simple questions to get a personalised action plan that lists what you or your organisation can do right now to protect against cyber attack.
Create your Cyber Action Plan - Stay protected online with a Cyber Action Plan
Back to top4) NICVA support
At NICVA, we’ve developed practical tools with expert partners to help small voluntary and community organisations strengthen their defences.
Explore our Five resources for building cyber security in small charities
Cyber awareness isn’t just for IT specialists, it’s something everyone in your organisation can play a part in. By taking small, proactive steps, you’ll make a big difference in keeping your charity safe online and protect the communities you serve.
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