In today’s digital landscape, a nonprofit’s website and web apps serve as crucial hubs for donor engagement, communication, and fundraising. However, these digital platforms are also attractive targets for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities. With the responsibility to protect sensitive donor information, nonprofits must take a proactive approach to web security. By following best practices, including the Essential 8 Framework, nonprofits can fortify their websites and applications, building donor trust and mitigating the risk of data breaches.
Why Cybersecurity for Websites and Web Applications Matters for Nonprofits
Nonprofit websites and web apps often handle a wealth of sensitive data, including donor contact details, financial information, and even user behavioural insights. Such data is vital for running campaigns and engaging supporters, but it also makes these digital assets prime targets for cyberattacks. A single vulnerability in a website or app can expose donor data and severely damage the organisation’s reputation. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures for web platforms reassures donors, reduces legal risks, and protects the organisation’s mission.
Introducing the Essential 8 Framework for Web Security
The Essential 8 Framework, developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), is a set of cybersecurity strategies designed to strengthen an organisation’s digital resilience. While initially created for government entities, the Essential 8 has become a trusted model for securing websites, web apps, and other digital platforms across industries.
The Essential 8 focuses on eight core strategies that nonprofits can adopt to secure their online platforms:
- Application Control – Limit the software and code that can run on web servers and applications to reduce the risk of malicious activity. This helps prevent unauthorised scripts and software from being executed.
- Patch Applications – Regularly update your website’s content management system (CMS), plugins, and other software. Outdated web components are a common source of vulnerabilities, so timely patching is essential.
- Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings – If your web applications support macros or script functions, consider disabling them unless absolutely necessary. Macro-based attacks can be particularly harmful on platforms with weak security configurations.
- User Application Hardening – Secure your web application settings by disabling features that introduce security risks. For example, restrict browser-based plugins, disable Flash and Java, and control cookie settings to minimise exploitation.
- Restrict Administrative Privileges – Limit admin access to your website’s backend to only essential personnel. Regularly review permissions to ensure that only trusted users have elevated access, reducing the risk of insider threats or accidental breaches.
- Patch Operating Systems – Ensure that both your web server’s operating system and CMS are up-to-date with security patches. Many attacks exploit outdated OS or CMS vulnerabilities, so this step is crucial for web security.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Add MFA for administrators and users with access to sensitive data. This adds a strong layer of protection, making it more challenging for attackers to gain entry to your web platform.
- Regular Backups – Regularly backup your web platform’s data and store it securely offline. Test recovery processes to ensure quick restoration in case of a cyber incident, minimising downtime and data loss.
Practical Steps to Secure Your Website and Web Apps with the Essential 8
For nonprofits managing their own websites or using custom-built web applications, implementing the Essential 8 Framework can enhance security significantly. Here’s how to apply each principle to your digital platforms effectively:
- Application Control for Web Servers – Work with your web development team to restrict which scripts and software can run on your server. By whitelisting approved applications, you prevent malicious code from executing.
- Prioritise Patching and Updates – Assign responsibility to ensure your CMS (such as WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal) and any plugins are regularly updated. For custom applications, consider partnering with a development team for consistent maintenance and security patches.
- Limit Script Capabilities – Disable or limit web-based macros and other scripting capabilities unless they are crucial to your application’s function. Macro-based vulnerabilities are common, so limiting their use can prevent potential exploits.
- Harden Application Features – Disable unnecessary features within your website’s backend or CMS. For example, limit the use of third-party widgets, Flash, and Java, which can open doors for malicious activities.
- Access Control and Privilege Management – Regularly audit your website and application users’ roles and permissions. Only trusted staff and vendors should have administrative access, reducing the risk of internal security incidents.
- Update Server and CMS Software – If your nonprofit uses a dedicated or cloud server for your website, ensure the operating system is updated regularly. Partnering with a hosting provider that offers managed security can also support this effort.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Implement MFA, especially for administrators and content managers accessing your website’s backend. Many web platforms and CMS systems now offer MFA integrations, adding an extra layer of security.
- Daily Backups and Recovery Testing – Schedule regular backups of your website’s data and store them in a secure location. Periodically test the recovery process to ensure your backups are functional and can be restored without issues.
Additional Cybersecurity Tips for Nonprofit Web Platforms
Beyond the Essential 8, here are some additional practices tailored to nonprofits aiming to secure their websites and web applications:
- Educate Staff and Volunteers – Regular training on cybersecurity awareness can help prevent human errors that lead to breaches. This includes recognising phishing scams, setting strong passwords, and understanding the importance of data privacy.
- Create a Cybersecurity Policy – Draft a clear cybersecurity policy that outlines acceptable use, data protection measures, and response plans for security incidents. Make sure all staff and volunteers are familiar with the policy.
- Consider Cyber Insurance – Cyber insurance can provide financial protection and support in the event of a data breach. This can be especially valuable for nonprofits to cover potential legal fees, notifications, and recovery costs.
- Partner with Security Experts – For small to medium-sized nonprofits without in-house IT expertise, partnering with a security firm or consultant can be a cost-effective way to bolster cybersecurity efforts. Many firms offer discounted or pro bono services to nonprofits.
- Build Transparency with Donors – Assure donors that their information is handled with the highest level of security. Display a privacy policy on your website and consider communicating your commitment to cybersecurity in newsletters or donor communications.
Conclusion
For nonprofits, securing donor data through robust web security practices is essential to building trust and supporting your mission. Implementing the Essential 8 Framework for your website and web applications provides a solid foundation, mitigating vulnerabilities and reinforcing donor confidence. By taking a proactive approach, nonprofits can protect the valuable data that powers their work, all while meeting donor expectations for privacy and security.
Looking to enhance your web platform’s security without breaking the bank? OSKY Defence offers a cost-effective package for nonprofits, providing regular website audits based on the Essential 8 Framework to keep your digital assets secure.
Learn more about OSKY Defence and start protecting your organisation’s online presence today!