Simple Cybersecurity Steps Every Nonprofit Can Take Using Microsoft 365

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As a nonprofit organization, it is common to think you are less likely to be targeted by cyber-attacks compared to larger, profit-driven enterprises. However, this misconception can leave you particularly vulnerable. Your organization frequently handles sensitive data, including donor information, financial records, and personal details of beneficiaries, making you an attractive target for cybercriminals. Additionally, you may operate with limited IT resources and cybersecurity knowledge, further increasing your risk. 

Adversaries do not discriminate based on an organization's size or purpose. In fact, your perceived weaker security measures can make you more appealing to attackers. Whether it's a data breach, a phishing scam, or a ransomware attack, the consequences can be devastating, leading to loss of donor trust, financial damage, and a tarnished reputation. 

Thus, implementing robust cybersecurity measures is not just a technical necessity but a critical component of your operational integrity. Protecting your digital assets ensures that you can continue your important work without interruption and maintains the trust and confidence of those who support and rely on your services. 

Your granted Microsoft 365 Business Premium licenses offer a suite of cybersecurity tools that can help protect your organization from cyber threats, even if you're not tech-savvy. This blog post will guide you through simple steps every nonprofit can implement to enhance their cybersecurity using Microsoft 365. 

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) 

One of the easiest and most effective ways to secure your accounts is by enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to their accounts, which can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.  

 Here is detailed Microsoft documentation on how to Set up multifactor authentication for users - Microsoft 365 admin | Microsoft Learn. 

Use Secure Passwords 

While it may seem basic, using strong, unique passwords is crucial for cybersecurity. Encourage your team to create passwords that include a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Microsoft 365 can enforce password policies that require users to meet these criteria. To set up a password policy: 

1. Navigate to the Microsoft 365 admin center. 
2. Click on Settings > Security & privacy. 
3. Select Password policy and adjust the settings to ensure strong passwords are used across your organization. 

Here is detailed information on Password policy recommendations - Microsoft 365 admin | Microsoft Learn. 

Regularly Update Software 

Keeping your software up to date is a simple but powerful defense against cyber threats. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that, if left unaddressed, could be exploited by hackers. Microsoft 365 makes it easy to keep your software up to date: 

1. An Admin can ensure that automatic updates are turned on in the Microsoft 365 admin center Configure update settings for Microsoft 365 Apps - Deploy Office | Microsoft Learn OR 
2. Regularly check for updates in each Microsoft 365 application by going to File > 
3. Account > Update Options > Update Now. 

 Educate Your Team 

Awareness and education are your best defenses against cyber threats. Conduct regular training sessions to keep your team informed about the latest cybersecurity practices and threats. Utilize resources like Microsoft 365's Learning Pathways, the Security Skilling Hub, or Microsoft Security Virtual Training Days here Secure and Protect Nonprofit Data | Microsoft Nonprofits  

Utilize Microsoft 365's Built-in Security Features 

Microsoft 365 comes with a variety of built-in security features that can help protect your data. Some key features include: 

1. Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection: Protects your emails against new, sophisticated attacks in real time. 
2. Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Helps prevent sensitive information from accidentally being shared outside your organization. 
3. Azure Information Protection: Allows you to classify and protect documents and emails by applying labels. 

Additional Resources  

1. What is Microsoft 365 Business Premium - Microsoft 365 admin | Microsoft Learn 
2. Microsoft 365 Business Premium – productivity and cybersecurity for small business 

By taking these simple steps, nonprofits can significantly enhance their cybersecurity posture with Microsoft 365. Remember, the goal is to make it as difficult as possible for potential cyber threats to penetrate your organization's defenses. With these practices in place, you can help secure your nonprofit's data and resources, ensuring that you continue to operate effectively and safely.