This October is the 20th anniversary of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and this year’s theme, “Secure our World,” emphasizes how individuals, families, and small to medium-sized businesses can stay safe online. In fact, according to the CyberPeace Institute, 80% of organizations do not currently have a cybersecurity plan in place.
Nonie Dalton, VP of product management at Board Docs, a Diligent brand, highlights the importance of cybersecurity prevention, planning and remediation — especially considering the lack of cybersecurity practices in education sectors, school boards and nonprofits.
Nonie Dalton, VP of product management, BoardDocs
“In 2023, it is more important than ever for organizations to be proactive in their approach to preventing cyberattacks. To be prepared in the event of a breach, it is crucial for every organization to implement cyberattack prevention measures and develop a cybersecurity response plan. This is particularly true for non-profits and public sector organizations as we are seeing them targeted more and more.
“Additionally, according to the CyberPeace Institute, 80% of organizations say they do not currently have a cybersecurity plan in place. A similar discrepancy is found within the cybersecurity practices of education and nonprofit sectors. It’s important for these types of organizations to recognize the pivotal role that cybersecurity awareness can play in preventing data breaches. For example, incorporating employee response training ensures organizations are fully equipped to react appropriately in the event of a cyberattack. And by reiterating employees can contribute by upholding cyber safe practices, school boards and nonprofits can stay ahead of cyber criminals and ensure their digital network is safer and more secure.
“Each year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a time for boards of all types to focus on cyber literacy so directors can effectively govern significant enterprise-wide cyber risks and have meaningful conversations with management. This month is a perfect opportunity for any organizations to reaffirm their commitment to proactively preventing cybercrime and safeguarding important information.”
