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Cyber security: what to look out for in 2025
15 Jan 2025by Jenny Phipps
We explore the top cyber threats expected in 2025 and how you can protect your charity and mitigate risk in the year ahead
As technology continues to evolve, so do the threats that come with it. Cyber criminals and online hackers are becoming more sophisticated with their techniques, finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and compromise systems. Making sure your charity is prepared for any cyber security risks 2025 could bring is vital to keeping your sensitive data secure.
In this article, we explore the top cyber threats expected in 2025 and how you can protect your organisation from falling victim, with insight from charity IT support providers Qlic.
The Biggest Cyber Security Risks for 2025
Cyber security risks are an ever-evolving threat to any organisation, but with the right barriers and solutions in place, you can make sure your organisation stays secure. Let’s delve into the main cyber security attacks you should watch out for in 2025.
AI-powered cyber attacks
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a game-changer for many charities, but unfortunately, cyber criminals are looking at ways to exploit it. In 2025, AI may be used in advanced cyber attacks like adaptive malware that evolves to bypass security, phishing emails that mimic trusted contacts, or deepfake videos that could trick your team into sharing confidential information.
For charities, criminals might exploit your donor data or infiltrate your systems to disrupt operations. The key is staying one step ahead by adopting security tools for your AI accounts that can detect and avoid threats, including Multi-Factor Authentication. You should also frequently update your systems to patch vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.
Sophisticated phishing scams
Phishing scams remains one of the most common cyber threats to organisations. In 2025, these scams will become increasingly sophisticated, using social engineering techniques to create emails that look legitimate. Cyber criminals might reference your charity’s recent events or even impersonate a trusted colleague, even the Chief Executive.
A successful phishing attack could lead to leaked donor data, stolen funds, or compromised systems. One way of preventing these attacks is to make your team aware and show them what they should look out for. ProofPoint is a great platform to help train your team, it creates fake phishing scams to test your colleagues and make sure they’re spotting the red flags.
Cloud security risks
The cloud has transformed the way not-for-profits operate, offering flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. However, misconfigured cloud settings are a leading cause of data breaches. For example, an incorrectly set-up cloud storage folder could leave sensitive donor information exposed to anyone with the access link. Cloud environments should be managed so they’re not vulnerable to cyber attacks.
To mitigate these risks, partner with a trusted managed IT service provider to conduct a thorough security audit of your cloud infrastructure. Regularly review who has access to your data and ensure that sensitive files are encrypted.
Insider threats and human error
While external hackers are the most known attacks, insider threats also remain a significant concern. For example, a volunteer could accidentally send sensitive data to the wrong email address or an employee clicking a malicious link. This can be mitigated by implementing internal controls, such as role-based access to ensure that employees only have access to the data they need to perform their roles.
Additionally, cyber security tools that monitor user activity can flag unusual behaviours, Managed Detection & Response is a great tool to do this. It provides an extra layer of protection and gives you the chance to find potential issues before they escalate.
Stricter regulations
Governments worldwide are introducing stricter regulations to protect personal data stored by organisations. In 2025, compliance with GDPR will require even more diligence. This could mean stricter reporting requirements for data breaches, tighter rules around data collection, and fines for non-compliance.
For not-for-profits, staying compliant can be daunting, especially if you don’t have a dedicated IT or legal team. However, to navigate these changes, schedule regular reviews of your data protection policies and invest in a cyber security audit to ensure your organisation is meeting its legal obligations. Resources like Gov.UK are invaluable for staying informed about the latest developments.
Conclusion
Cyber security in 2025 is not only about protecting your systems, it’s also about making sure your team have the training and knowledge around cyber security. It’s crucial to take proactive steps now to address emerging threats like AI-driven attacks, phishing scams, and cloud vulnerabilities. Make sure to protect your mission, your donors, and your reputation.
At Qlic IT, we understand the unique challenges not-for-profits face when it comes to cyber security. Whether you need help with compliance, staff training, or security tools, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Stay secure in 2025!
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