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The Internet is the backbone of modern society, powering everything from infrastructure to communication. However, with increased internet usage comes a surge in cyberattacks and cybercrime. This Cybersecurity Month, it’s crucial to recognize the nonprofits and NGOs that safeguard key internet functions. Without their protection, we risk losing vital services.
While big tech companies like Apple and Google often take the spotlight for digital security, it’s actually numerous nonprofits that play a critical role in maintaining cybersecurity for all internet users, especially the most vulnerable in our communities. These unsung heroes ensure a safe and functional online environment.
Many small businesses rely on tools provided by nonprofits to streamline their operations affordably. From open-source libraries like log4J to software like LibreOffice, these organizations help businesses operate efficiently while keeping costs low. Tools such as Quad9, Let’s Encrypt, and Shadowserver further enhance cybersecurity measures for these businesses.
Facing limited resources and funding uncertainties, these nonprofits work tirelessly to maintain technical standards, distribute open-source code, protect individuals directly, and ensure network reliability. Their absence would have far-reaching consequences for everyone.
Philip Reitinger - Global Cyber Alliance
Cyberattacks pose a significant threat to small businesses worldwide due to their limited defenses and awareness compared to larger corporations. These businesses are frequent targets of ransomware attacks due to their reliance on free or low-cost cybersecurity tools provided by nonprofits. As Wendy Nather puts it,
they are below the “Security Poverty Line,” lacking both knowledge and financial means for robust cybersecurity measures.
In the U.S., small businesses contribute significantly to the economy but remain vulnerable targets for cyber threats due to resource constraints.
The impact of cybersecurity breaches can be devastating financially as well as emotionally.
Data breaches affecting millions of individuals have highlighted the severity of cyber threats faced by companies today.
The financial toll of such incidents can be staggering; IBM estimates an average cost of $2.98 million per data breach for companies with fewer than 500 employees.
To support these essential organizations providing cybersecurity tools at little or no cost,
consider making regular donations or offering technical expertise through volunteering opportunities.
By raising awareness about open-source solutions among policymakers
you can help secure funding avenues crucial for sustaining these initiatives.
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Stephane Duguin – CyberPeace Institute
The rise in cyber threats underscores the importance of optimizing open-source tools through collective insights.
Small businesses with limited budgets face heightened risks from malicious actors,
underscoring the need for accessible cybersecurity solutions.< / p >
Vulnerable populations rely on charities that may lack adequate protection against cyber threats,
highlighting systemic vulnerabilities across various sectors.< / p >
Building a more secure digital landscape requires community collaboration akin
to traditional barn-raising efforts where collective action achieves what individuals cannot alone.< / p >
Supporting nonprofit initiatives is crucial in advancing common goals through scalable platforms
and services that bolster global security efforts.< / p >
Recent collaborations among NGO leaders at The Hague underscore global efforts towards enhancing digital security frameworks,
emphasizing public participation in securing online environments.< / P >
< strong > Philip Reitinger strong > h3 >
Philip R.Reitinger,president,and CEOofGlobalCyberAlliance(GCA),hasextensive experience inclaw enforcementandtechindustryroles.Hiswork focusesonstrengtheningcybersecuritymeasuresforbusinessesandconsumersalike.
< strong > StéphaneDuguin strong > h3 >
StéphaneDuguin,isCEOofCyberPeaceInstitute,humanitarianentrepreneur,andinvestigatorwithover20yearsofcybersafetyexperience.Headvocatesforvulnerablegroupsprovidingfreeeducationalresources.Hiscontributionsasauthorandspeakerhighlightcriminalinnovationsintoday’sdigitalage.
Cyberrisksareever-evolving,challengingsmallbusinessesandorganizationswithlimitedresources.Throughcommunityengagement,donations,andawareness-building,youcanempowernonprofitsandNGOstosustaintheirmissionofprovidingessentialcybertoolsat scale.
2024-11-18 05:15:04 Source fromwww.ibtimes.com< /a>
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