Glossary
Audit & Controls

Cybersecurity

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

Cybersecurity is the protection of digital systems and data from unauthorized access, damage, or theft, vital for safeguarding nonprofit information.
Cybersecurity refers to the processes, technologies, and practices designed to protect networks, computers, programs, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, or damage. For nonprofits, cybersecurity is essential for safeguarding sensitive information such as donor data, financial records, and volunteer details. Threats include phishing, malware, ransomware, and data breaches, which can result in financial losses, reputational harm, and noncompliance with regulations. Effective cybersecurity involves regular risk assessments, staff training, secure passwords, updated software, and strong internal controls. Nonprofits must also develop incident response plans to recover quickly from any cyber event. By prioritizing cybersecurity, organizations can ensure the trust of donors and stakeholders while maintaining regulatory compliance and organizational continuity.

Key Takeaways

  • Protects sensitive nonprofit and donor information
  • Reduces risk of financial and reputational loss
  • Requires ongoing staff training and updated systems

Why It Matters

Protects donor data and finances, ensuring compliance and trust.

Real World Example

A small nonprofit that manages donor information online experienced a phishing attack targeting its staff. Because the organization had implemented multi-factor authentication, regular security training, and encrypted backups as part of its cybersecurity strategy, the attackers were unable to gain access to sensitive donor records. The nonprofit quickly identified and reported the attempted breach, minimizing the risk and reassuring donors their information was secure. This proactive approach not only protected the organization’s finances and reputation but also demonstrated a commitment to responsible data stewardship—a critical trust factor for supporters and grantors.

How Aplos Helps

Aplos provides secure, cloud-based accounting and donor management solutions. We implement robust cybersecurity protocols to protect customer data from unauthorized access and to help nonprofits meet compliance requirements. With Aplos, organizations can rely on encrypted data storage, regular security updates, and user access controls to reduce cyber risks.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is cybersecurity important for nonprofits?

Nonprofits handle sensitive data such as donor information and financial records, making them potential targets for cyberattacks. Strong cybersecurity protects against data breaches and financial loss.

How does Aplos help protect my nonprofit’s data?

Aplos uses encryption, secure cloud storage, regular security updates, and user access controls to safeguard your organization’s information.

What are common cybersecurity threats?

Phishing, malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access are typical threats. Regular training and updated systems help mitigate these risks.