Microsoft Security Program for Nonprofits

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As technology continues to advance and our reliance on it grows, cybersecurity has become a critical component to any organization’s operational process. The rise of cyberattacks and incidents has put businesses on high alert and forced them to prioritize safeguarding their systems and sensitive information. This is especially true for nonprofit organizations who handle donor information and other confidential data. According to NTEN, cyberattack incident response policies are in place for only 20% of nonprofits surveyed. It takes just one security incident to jeopardize the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data. From data loss and reputation damage to financial losses, the fallout of a successful hack can impact an organization in many ways. Deploying a robust cybersecurity framework and controls can help prevent potential hacking attempts and safeguard sensitive data. In their ongoing efforts to combat security attacks, Microsoft has adopted a proactive stance in the battle against cyber threats, particularly concerning nonprofit organizations. By implementing the Microsoft security program, organizations can have peace of mind knowing that their sensitive information is well-protected and secure.

What is Microsoft's Security Program for nonprofits

The Microsoft Security Program for nonprofits is a unique offering that provides top-tier security products which can be tailored to meet the specific needs of organizations. With a wide-ranging collection of security solutions, the program complements Microsoft’s security suite to offer nonprofits robust protection against cyber threats. This comprehensive suite of tools is designed to provide preventive surveillance, advanced alerting capabilities, and risk evaluation to help organizations stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving threat landscape. With this program, organizations can take a proactive approach to their security needs, strengthening their network security and infrastructure to protect against potential attacks. Additionally, the program simplifies the process of security training for IT staff and end-users, helping to ensure everyone is up to speed and prepared to defend against any security threats that may arise. This program ensures that nonprofits can focus on their mission critical work, without worrying about their security infrastructure.   

To utilize this security program, Microsoft has listed specific requirements in order to become an eligible organization. Eligible organizations must fall into one of the following categories:  

  1. Nonprofit or non-governmental organizations with recognized legal status in their respective country (equivalent to 501(c)(3) status under the United States Internal Revenue Code).
  2. Public libraries that offer free general library services to all residents of a particular community, district, or region.
  3. Public museums, whether public or private, open to the public, dedicated to the conservation and exhibition of tangible objects for cultural preservation, education, or aesthetic enjoyment.

What can I get with Microsoft's Security Program:

  1. AccountGuard Program: Organizations of all types and sizes are vulnerable to cyber threats and attacks. For nonprofits, the risks can be even greater, given the nature of their work and the sensitive data they hold. That’s where Microsoft AccountGuard comes in – a powerful cybersecurity solution that provides an extra layer of protection to these organizations. By leveraging the capabilities of AccountGuard, nonprofits can enhance their security posture, keep their critical assets safe, and be better prepared to face the unique challenges that come with operating in the digital world. Whether you’re a nonprofit looking to safeguard your operations or a business looking to boost its security, Microsoft AccountGuard is a valuable tool that can help you stay safe and secure.
  2. Free security assessments: The Microsoft security assessment is a valuable tool that provides clients with a comprehensive understanding of their current security measures and potential areas for improvement. By analyzing the feasibility of support, possible consolidation approaches, and optimization strategies, Microsoft is able to offer a detailed report that outlines the best practices for enhancing security measures. Once the report is received, clients are able to take the necessary steps to protect their valuable assets. By working with a managed services provider like PSM Partners, organizations can implement heightened security practices and feel confident that they are safeguarding against potential threats.  
  3. Free training pathways for IT administrators and end-users: In addition to the security assessment, Microsoft has developed curated training programs aimed at simplifying access to Microsoft’s essential security courses for organizations. These training pathways are designed to accommodate employees from various backgrounds and roles, ensuring that they have easy access to the most essential information. By participating in these programs, individuals gain valuable knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves from online scams and cyber-attacks. This empowers them to securely carry out their work responsibilities from the comfort of their own homes. These training programs provide the latest strategies and techniques to enhance cybersecurity and promote a safe and secure work environment.

How can a Managed Service Provider help your nonprofit with the Microsoft Security Program:

A Managed Service Provider (MSP) is a third-party company that partners with nonprofits and other businesses to handle the technological needs of their organizations. Managed Service providers offer a range of services, from overseeing computer systems and providing end user support to implementing cybersecurity measures. In terms of assisting nonprofits in navigating the Microsoft Security Program, managed service providers can offer the following support:

  1. Conduct risk assessments: Managed Service providers can help you optimize your security posture by helping you understand the free security assessment Microsoft offers. Conducting risk assessments and network assessments can help to identify vulnerabilities and potential security threats within the nonprofit’s IT infrastructure. In addition to the free Microsoft security assessment, a managed service provider should be able to offer additional security assessments to help you maintain a strong security posture.
  2. 24/7 security monitoring: Just like the services Microsoft’s Accountgaurd offers, managed service providers are an excellent resource for organizations who are looking to enhance their security posture. Their expertise in the field allows them to set up detailed systems that can detect and respond to security incidents promptly. By monitoring network traffic and detecting suspicious activities, they can identify potential threats before they can cause any significant damage. In the event of a security incident, managed service providers can swiftly initiate appropriate actions to mitigate risks and help minimize the impact of any security incident.
  3. Data backup and disaster recovery: Managed Service Providers can create reliable and effective backup and disaster recovery strategies for organizations to safeguard their critical data. MSP’s not only perform regular backups, but they also test the restoration process to ensure that data can be recovered quickly and efficiently. With a comprehensive disaster recovery plan in place, MSPs help nonprofits minimize downtime and can help prevent data loss in the event of an incident.
  4. Conducting security awareness training: In addition to the Security webinars and trainings Microsoft provides to nonprofits, managed service providers can offer trainings and other programs to employees, educating them about best practices while promoting a security-conscious culture within the organization. These providers can also assist with the implementation and management of a security awareness platform that can be leveraged by your organization for ongoing security training.

How can PSM Partners help advance you security posture?

PSM Partners, based in Chicago, provides nonprofit IT services and support for all types of nonprofit organizations. We offer a comprehensive range of IT services, which include project-based support, cloud services, IT consulting, and cybersecurity.  With the amount of sensitive data stored by a nonprofit organization, it is important to ensure that systems and data are monitored and protected.

Our cybersecurity services for nonprofit organizations will strengthen your overall security posture with state-of-the-art technology solutions, controls, and monitoring to improve the protection of your systems and data.   You can work with us to receive cybersecurity managed services in which we provide complete management including monitoring, maintenance, and updates as part of your managed IT services, or independently with our security as a service (SECaaS) offering in which we just manage the security of your IT environment. As your cybersecurity service provider, we will form a well-rounded strategy with the best technologies and methods to protect your IT system from malware, unauthorized access, and other forms of cybersecurity attacks.  Our highly trained cybersecurity professionals will implement multi-layer security solutions to simplify and enhance the security of your system.  We will also audit and assess your network security to ensure that you are always protected.

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About the Author

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Taylor Friend

I am a dynamic and results-focused Marketing Coordinator at PSM Partners, recognized for my unwavering motivation, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to achieving business objectives. Throughout my time at PSM, I have demonstrated remarkable expertise as the primary liaison for Microsoft and NetDocuments, rapidly establishing myself as a proficient point of contact. Additionally, by harnessing my inherent organizational skills, I have effectively elevated the quality of both our internal and external events.

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