Ecclesiastical has published a new guide to help brokers support their charity clients defend against digital risk. The new guide, which has been produced with the support of the Charities Security Forum, provides information on the range of cyber threats they could face -- from ransomware, malware and denial of service to phishing, password attacks and human error. It also provides a wealth of practical advice on mitigating these risks, including guidance on protecting against data breaches.

The insurer’s research showed that 17% of charities have already experienced a cyber attack, with ransomware top of the list of cyber threats organisations have faced, while 63% said that they are concerned about cyber and internet crime.

Ecclesiastical’s charity director, David Britton, said: “Many charities are embracing technology and social media to interact with beneficiaries, customers, suppliers, donors and the general public.

“However, this can bring new threats in an ever-evolving landscape, and, after several years of high profile attacks on larger corporations and businesses, there is now a growing trend of cyber attackers turning their attention towards organisations that may have a lower level of cyber security, including charities. That makes specialist advice and support from their insurance partners even more essential.

“There are many ways to mitigate cyber risk and that’s why we’ve produced this new guide. It will help brokers to support their charity clients with their changing insurance and risk management needs.”

Martyn Croft, cyber expert and co-founder of the Charities Security Forum with Brian Shorten, said: “Representing information security people working in charities and not-for-profits, the Charities Security Forum is committed to continuing to raise awareness of cyber risk in the third sector and to helping support these organisations with building up their digital defences."

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