As cyberattacks increase and evolve, human service organizations must adapt and develop resiliency. And while some aspects of cybersecurity translate across industries, human services organizations have distinct challenges to consider when building resiliency from online threats.
To move from reactive responses toward a proactive and holistic program, start by identifying your organization’s top cybersecurity risks and considerations.
Most employees within human services organizations encounter sensitive information about their clients, either directly or indirectly. A robust cybersecurity program will employ many layers of protection to safeguard sensitive information, identify potential vulnerabilities, and cauterize any security breakdowns as soon as possible if a breach does occur.
While all organizations need cybersecurity policies, human services organizations have unique challenges that may place them at additional risk for attack. Some of these issues include:
Many human services organizations cite the costs of cybersecurity measures when delaying implementation. However, the actual costs of cyberattacks and data breaches can cost more than preventative measures, not to mention the cost of a damaged reputation.
IBM estimates the average cost of a data breach globally stands at $4.45 million in 2023. This figure was up 15% in the last three years and is expected to continue to increase.
Ransomware is another costly problem for human services organizations. Worldwide, ransomware attacks cost organizations more than $20 billion in 2021. Some experts estimate ransomware will cost organizations more than $265 billion by 2031.
Organizations are vulnerable to a barrage of online threats that can include:
Cybersecurity attacks are evolving quickly, and organizations must protect against these threats from many different angles. Because they handle an abundance of sensitive data and valuable information, human services organizations need a comprehensive strategy that includes employee training and working with trusted cybersecurity partners.
An effective cybersecurity strategy must include guidance for every department. As all encompassing, it should govern electronic and in-person communication and be a living, evolving strategy that is regularly practiced and updated.
Employees represent an organization’s greatest assets and also its greatest vulnerability. Phishing is a widespread way that hackers use emails or other messaging systems that appear to be from reputable sources to lure users into providing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial access.
Ensuring all employees receive thorough education and training during onboarding is essential, but it isn’t enough. Education and training should be ongoing and for employees of all levels, no matter their tenure with the organization.
The threats can and often do change, and requiring all employees to undergo regular training can help them stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and risks.
A trusted cybersecurity partner is essential for human services organizations. Working with experienced professionals can help create a more holistic strategy that identifies key weaknesses and develops pathways for an organization to align its budget and available tools with its goals.
In order to adapt to the evolving cybersecurity landscape, human services organizations need to stay informed about cybersecurity trends and threats, and regularly reassess organizational cybersecurity measures.
This information can provide insight into industry trends and higher-risk areas, and help to direct limited resources where they are most likely to be beneficial.
Knowing what types of cyberattacks are trending is the first step. Follow up by regularly re-examining organizational cybersecurity measures to ensure they are up-to-date. Also know that older devices and software may be especially vulnerable to attack. Ensuring that you have a plan to address legacy technology is key to success.
Cybersecurity attacks are no longer a question of ‘if’, but ‘when’. Finding a partner you can trust is vital if your organization is looking to strengthen its cybersecurity posture and create a more holistic strategy.
Hartman Executive Advisors specializes in creating cybersecurity strategies rooted in best practices that incorporate measurement to help your organization focus on what’s important. Contact Hartman today and learn more about crafting a resilient cybersecurity strategy for your human services organization.