May 22, 2013
Many nonprofits are beginning to realize the benefits posed by cloud computing, but it's important to always consider the risks associated with using the online storage solution for housing information about donors, finances and other critical data. Recent research from global enterprise software company NetIQ revealed almost 70 percent of IT executives said their consumer cloud services pose a risk to sensitive data in their organizations, while 45 percent are not completely sure their cloud provider's security processes and programs meet their data security requirements.
Nonprofit decision-makers must keep these statistics in mind when choosing what information should be stored in the cloud, as well as how the organization will form its data security strategies. Using password encryption, testing password strength and investing in antivirus software are just a few ways nonprofits can keep their cloud environment safe from cybercriminals and computer hackers.
"Data-centric security programs remain the most targeted and effective way to build security programs ready to embrace the complexities inherent in adopting cloud," said Geoff Webb, director, Solution Strategy at NetIQ. "Identifying sensitive data, applying appropriate layers of protection around that data, and tracking who is accessing it remain the best ways to respond to threats, meet regulatory requirements and minimize organizational risk."
Many nonprofits are centered around a cause that needs funding, and losing money on a data breach is simply not an option. Having security solutions in place, as well a strategy for how to deal with potential threats, is vital in keeping the organization's cloud secure. If members of staff are using their mobile devices to carry out business tasks, it's important their smartphones and tablets have the same protections as all computers and technology that are used within the nonprofit.
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We first started using First Nonprofit’s Unemployment Savings Program when we were a small startup nonprofit. We didn’t have an HR department and needed expertise in the event that an unemployment claim was made. We knew we were eligible to be a reimbursing employer, but weren’t sure how to navigate that process. They made it easy to set things up, plan for, and then manage claims when they came at a very reasonable cost. The amount of time and stress they’ve saved us dealing with all this has been worth way more than the cost. We’ve now grown to a large nonprofit and do have an HR department but have no plans to stop using their services. I highly recommend them to every nonprofit I come into contact with!
Throughout our membership in the Unemployment Savings Program, First Nonprofit understood our demands, community dynamics, and the importance of seamless services; that allowed us to serve our constituents better.
Because INCS advocates for the operating conditions that allow charter public schools to provide high quality public education, partnering with First Nonprofit was an easy decision. First Nonprofit’s unemployment programs provide our member schools two operating elements crucial to their ability to provide high quality public education: savings and budget certainty. Capable, committed teachers are the key to student success. By participating in the unemployment insurance savings plan, charter public schools gain peace of mind and are able to invest more money in their teachers.
It has been our sincere pleasure to maintain a strong, vibrant business partnership with First Nonprofit. We greatly admire their strong industry knowledge, technical expertise, constant professionalism, knowledgeable and dedicated staff. They are always extremely responsive, personable and provide us with the necessary guidance and recommendations on a numerous variety of employment scenarios.
NYCON members who use First Nonprofit’s programs enjoy enduring savings and improved efficiency. Our association knows that success, because from the beginning, we achieved the same great benefits. Great savings, seamless technology, and responsive service. NYCON highly recommends First Nonprofit’s remarkable unemployment solutions.
Visually Impaired Preschool Services has been a client of First Non-Profit since it was first offered as a benefit of VisionServe Alliance. We completed a thorough evaluation of cash savings to our agency before taking advantage of this wonderful benefit and it has been a very wise decision. Our experience with the processes from accounting to claims have been professional, expeditious and easy.
Luckily for us, our interactions regarding any issues with staffing has been very minimal! I can say that all other interactions with regards to billing, 941 reporting, etc. have been extremely pleasant, accommodating and easy to work with. Kim Ghanayem is always prompt, professional and friendly. Thank you so much!
First Nonprofit has been easy to work with and makes the administrative process easier and smoother. We enjoy working with you.