You’ll learn the key cybersecurity risks facing nonprofits today, best practices every board member should know, and steps you can take to protect your organization in 2025 and beyond.

Why Cybersecurity Matters for Nonprofit Boards

Cyberattacks against nonprofits are increasing — and boards are directly responsible for ensuring the organization is prepared. Common risks include:

  • Data breaches exposing donor, employees, or client information
  • Financial fraud targeting organizational funds
  • Operational disruption from ransomware attacks
  • Loss of public trust after a security incident

As a board member, you have a fiduciary duty to oversee risk management, including cybersecurity risks. To learn more about your responsibilities read our blog: Nonprofit Boards, Don’t Ignore Cybersecurity — You Could Be Liable for a Breach

Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats Nonprofits Face in 2025

  1. Phishing and Email Scams
    Attackers target nonprofits with emails that trick employees into giving away passwords, financial data, or donor records.
  2. Ransomware Attacks
    Hackers lock down an organization's systems and demand a ransom payment, halting operations and endangering service delivery.
  3. Insider Threats
    Both accidental errors and malicious actions by employees or volunteers can lead to breaches.
  4. Outdated Systems and Software
    Old technology without security updates is a major vulnerability.
  5. Third-Party Vendor Risks
    Partners who manage IT services, donations, or communications could introduce security risks if their systems are compromised.

Concerned About Your Organization’s Cyber Readiness?

Don't wait for a breach to find out your vulnerabilities. We can help you assess your nonprofit’s risks and strengthen your defenses. Schedule a call with our team.

7 Cybersecurity Best Practices for Nonprofit Boards

Nonprofit boards should prioritize these cybersecurity fundamentals:

  1. Regular Cybersecurity Training
    Educate staff, volunteers, and board members on recognizing threats and maintaining security hygiene.
  2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
    Require MFA for all critical systems and accounts to add an extra layer of protection.
  3. Data Backup and Recovery Plans
    Ensure regular data backups are made and tested, allowing recovery after a breach or ransomware attack.
  4. Incident Response Planning
    Create a clear, documented plan for how the organization will respond to a cybersecurity incident. Need help? Check out our blog: Board Responsibility: What To Do in the Event of a Cyber Breach
  5. Vendor Risk Management
    Vet third-party vendors carefully and require cybersecurity assurances in contracts.
  6. Annual Security Audits
    Have IT professionals or cybersecurity consultants perform regular assessments.
  7. Cyber Liability Insurance
    Review insurance policies to confirm they cover cyber incidents and data breaches.

How Board Members Can Lead on Cybersecurity

As a board member, you don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert — but you must ask the right questions:

  • Does our organization have a cybersecurity policy?
  • Are we providing cybersecurity training for staff and leadership?
  • When was our last cybersecurity risk assessment?
  • How would we respond if our donor database were hacked?
  • Are cybersecurity risks included in our enterprise risk management plans?

TIP: A strong cybersecurity framework often begins with a Written Information Security Plan (WISP). 

Learn how to write a WISP and if your Nonprofit has the proper documentation here: Does Your Nonprofit Have a WISP?

If you’re just starting out, it’s important to know where to begin and how to get started with a WISP. 

Additional Resources for Nonprofit Board Members

For more on strengthening your nonprofit's cybersecurity posture, explore these resources:

Nonprofit Cybersecurity Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why are nonprofits targeted by hackers?
A: Nonprofits often have valuable data but fewer resources for cybersecurity, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Q: Should our nonprofit hire a cybersecurity consultant?
A: Many nonprofits benefit from hiring outside experts to perform security assessments and recommend improvements.

Q: What is the board's legal responsibility in cybersecurity?
A: Board members have a fiduciary duty to manage risks responsibly, which includes cybersecurity threats.