Most small and mid-sized organizations don't need an enterprise security program — they need a handful of practices done consistently. Start here.
1. Multifactor authentication, everywhere
If multifactor authentication (MFA) isn't turned on for every account with access to email, financial systems, or client data, this is the single highest-leverage fix available to you. It is inexpensive, fast to deploy, and closes the door on the most common way accounts get compromised.
2. Backups you've actually tested
A backup you haven't tested restoring from is a hope, not a plan. Confirm what's backed up, how often, and whether someone has actually walked through a recovery in the last year.
3. Endpoint protection on every device
Every laptop, desktop, and mobile device that touches organizational data should have current endpoint protection — including devices owned by staff, if they're used for work.
4. A basic incident response plan
You don't need a 40-page document. You need a one-page answer to: who gets called first, who has authority to make decisions, and how you'll communicate with staff and, if needed, clients or donors.
5. Access reviews
Do former employees and volunteers still have active accounts? Access should be reviewed on a regular cadence, not only when someone remembers to check.
6. Staff awareness
Most incidents start with a person, not a system. A short, recurring awareness session goes further than most organizations expect.
If you're not sure where your organization stands on these six areas, our Business Success Assessment includes a dedicated cybersecurity readiness section that will show you exactly where to start.