Cybersecurity Education Series for Nonprofits – Security Basics III
In the third installment of the security basics for nonprofit organizations, we discuss the importance of firewalls, antivirus, and malware solutions.
Firewalls
Understanding the benefits of firewall security in this ever-changing digital age is a key element in the idea of protecting one’s network. Firewalls are devices that allow organizations to both monitor and filter/block incoming and outgoing network traffic. Protecting one’s network by having firewalls means that we can monitor our network traffic and create barriers for untrusted networks (via rules we create) as well as monitor the data that is leaving and entering the network. This is extremely important and valuable to organizations as they have the ability to block traffic based on trends/threats in near-real time at a granular level (region, IP address(es), ports, etc.).
Antivirus Software
To protect the data on your devices from being compromised by malware (malicious software) or viruses, it is essential to invest in antivirus software. Antivirus software is software that detects, deletes, and/or quarantines malicious code on your devices. One benefit of investing in antivirus software is the fact it is constantly updated to be aware of the latest viruses or malware signatures. Antivirus software can detect the signatures of malicious software, meaning that older (but still dangerous) viruses are virtually guaranteed to be caught. Any newer viruses that are not in the antivirus’ database are more likely to slip through the cracks – this is where malware solutions come in.
Malware Solutions
Malware is a broad term that refers to any malicious software – hence the name. Malware solutions are typically more robust in their ability to detect malicious software that has not been seen before (more proactive solution). This is unlike antivirus software, which are required to have already seen a program/virus signature to know that it should be removed (more reactive solution). Malware solutions can handle trojans, worms, adware, spyware, and many other malicious software, and is able to detect malicious events based on behavior.
How CLA Can Help?
CLA’s cybersecurity team has a deep understanding of the current threat landscape and can assist with securing firewalls and implementing antivirus and malware solutions. Do not go at it alone. Learn more here, and reach out if you have any questions.
This content was written by CLA’s Cybersecurity Team – Cole Lacara, Darlene Waritay, Jake Glauber, and Daniel Hayes.
Keep Pace with Our Cybersecurity Education Series for Nonprofits
Cybersecurity Education Series for Nonprofits – Series Introduction
Cybersecurity Education Series for Nonprofits – Security Basics I
Cybersecurity Education Series for Nonprofits – Security Basics II
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