HOW CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS CAN IMPROVE ON DIGITAL SECURITY AND SAFETY
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) play a critical role in advocating for social justice, human rights, and other important causes. However, as they operate daily in today’s increasingly digital world, they face numerous security and safety challenges that can compromise their work and put their staff and stakeholders at risk. Some of these risks may be even unknown to them and could go on for unlimited timelines. Here are some key steps that CSOs can take to enhance their digital security and safety;
- Conduct an internal security assessment: Before implementing any security measures, it’s important to assess the specific risks and threats that your organization faces. This can involve conducting a vulnerability assessment, reviewing your existing security policies and procedures, and identifying any potential weaknesses in your digital infrastructure. Organizations can seek the intervention of external digital security professionals to audit their internal digital security systems.
- Develop a strong password policy: Strong passwords are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your organization’s digital assets. Ensure that all staff members use complex passwords and change them regularly. Consider implementing two-factor authentication for added security. A strong password policy is crucial for protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access to accounts. Some key things to remember while choosing a password is; length and complexity, Uniqueness, void of personal information, and two-factor Authentication. By implementing these guidelines, you can develop a strong password policy that will help protect your organization’s sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access to accounts.
- Encrypt sensitive data: Encryption is a powerful tool for protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access. Ensure that all sensitive files, emails, and other communications are encrypted using secure methods. Encrypting sensitive data is a crucial step in protecting organisations’ data and equipment from unauthorized access. Here are some guidelines for encrypting sensitive data; Identify Sensitive Data, use strong encryption Keys and algorithms, and regularly review and update encryption practices.
- Use secure communication channels within your organization: Ensure that all staff members use secure communication channels. Use communication channels that are encrypted end-to-end. This means that the data is encrypted at the source and can only be decrypted by the intended recipient. Examples of encrypted communication channels include secure messaging apps, encrypted email services, and virtual private networks (VPNs). Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured and can be easily compromised.
- Build capacity of staff members on security best practices: Educate staff members on the best practices for digital security and safety, including how to identify and avoid phishing scams, how to secure their devices, and how to identify and report any security incidents. CSOs can engage with partners who provide such resources. The West African Civil society institute (WACSI and its current local partners in Cameroon organizations such as Local Youth Corner Cameroon LOYOC offer capacity-building training on Digital Security and Safety.
- Be aware and conscious of Social Media Posts, Interactions, and Implications: Social media has become an integral part of CSOs work, with many using it to share interests and programs However, it’s important to be aware of the potential implications of our social media posts. To avoid the potential negative implications of social media posts, it’s important to be conscious and aware of what you’re sharing online. Think carefully before you post and tag and consider how your posts could be perceived by others. When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid sharing anything that could have negative
- Constantly Monitor Security tools and safety guidelines for security breaches and potential security breaches: Ensuring the safety and security of your organization’s data and systems is crucial in today’s digital landscape. That is why it is important to constantly monitor your security tools and stay updated. After implementing robust security tools, including firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems, to help safeguard against cyber attacks. These tools should be monitored regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and any potential issues are addressed promptly with safety guidelines to prevent security breaches and potential threats. By staying vigilant and proactive in your approach to security, you can help minimize the risk of security breaches and protect your organization’s valuable data and systems.
By taking these steps, CSOs can enhance their digital security and safety, protecting their digital assets and ensuring that they can continue to advocate for important causes without fear of compromise or harm.
Check our Social Media Platforms
Follow us on Facebook