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Nonprofit Technology and Cybersecurity Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing nonprofit technology and cybersecurity practices, covering IT infrastructure, data protection, privacy compliance, and digital tool integration to enhance operational efficiency and data security.

Nonprofit Technology and Cybersecurity Audit Checklist

by: audit-now
4.8

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About This Checklist

The Nonprofit Technology and Cybersecurity Audit Checklist is a crucial tool for assessing and enhancing an organization's digital infrastructure and data protection measures. This comprehensive checklist addresses key aspects of IT management, data security, privacy compliance, and technology integration in nonprofit operations. By systematically reviewing technology practices, nonprofits can safeguard sensitive information, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the responsible use of digital tools in advancing their mission. This checklist helps organizations identify vulnerabilities, implement robust cybersecurity measures, and demonstrate their commitment to protecting stakeholder data and maintaining technological resilience.

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Industry

Nonprofit and NGOs

Standard

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Standards

Workspaces

Nonprofit IT Department

Occupations

IT Manager
Data Protection Officer
Systems Administrator
Chief Technology Officer
Information Security Specialist
1
Is the organization compliant with data protection policies like GDPR and CCPA?

Select 'PASS' if compliant, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To ensure adherence to legal and regulatory requirements.
2
Has cybersecurity training been provided to all staff?

Indicate whether training has been provided.

To ensure that all staff are aware of cybersecurity risks and practices.
3
Is the IT infrastructure regularly audited for security vulnerabilities?

Select 'PASS' if audits are conducted regularly, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To identify and mitigate potential security threats.
4
Is there an incident response plan in place for cybersecurity breaches?

Describe the incident response plan in place.

To ensure preparedness for potential security incidents.
5
Is multi-factor authentication (MFA) implemented for all users accessing sensitive data?

Indicate whether MFA is in place.

To enhance security by requiring multiple forms of verification.
6
Are data encryption practices applied to sensitive information both at rest and in transit?

Select 'PASS' if encryption is applied as required, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
7
Are software updates applied regularly to all systems?

Provide details on the update schedule and compliance.

To protect against vulnerabilities and ensure system security.
8
Are backup and recovery procedures regularly tested for effectiveness?

Select 'PASS' if procedures are regularly tested, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To ensure data can be restored in case of loss or breach.
9
Are adequate network security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, implemented?

Select 'PASS' if security measures are in place, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To protect the organization's network from unauthorized access and attacks.
10
Is there regular training for staff on how to respond to data breaches?

Indicate whether training is provided.

To ensure that staff are prepared to act swiftly and effectively in case of a breach.
11
Are access control policies documented and enforced?

Provide a summary of the access control policies in place.

To limit access to sensitive information to authorized personnel only.
12
Are security assessments conducted for third-party vendors handling sensitive data?

Select 'PASS' if assessments are conducted, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To ensure that third-party vendors meet security standards.
13
Is regular penetration testing conducted to identify vulnerabilities?

Indicate whether penetration testing is performed regularly.

To proactively identify and mitigate security weaknesses in the system.
14
Are there established procedures for reporting security incidents?

Select 'PASS' if procedures are established, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To ensure timely reporting and response to security incidents.
15
Are data retention and disposal policies documented and followed?

Describe the data retention and disposal policies in place.

To ensure that data is retained and disposed of in compliance with regulations.
16
Are user account management practices, including regular reviews and deactivation of unused accounts, implemented?

Select 'PASS' if practices are implemented, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To minimize the risk of unauthorized access through inactive or unused accounts.
17
Is the organization compliant with established cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST?

Select 'PASS' if compliant, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To ensure that cybersecurity measures align with industry standards.
18
Are data loss prevention (DLP) solutions implemented and functioning?

Indicate whether DLP solutions are in place.

To protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and breaches.
19
Are regular security audits conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of security measures?

Provide details on the frequency and scope of security audits.

To identify gaps in security practices and improve overall security posture.
20
Is the incident response plan regularly tested for effectiveness?

Select 'PASS' if the plan is tested regularly, otherwise 'FAIL'.

To ensure that the organization can respond effectively to security incidents.

FAQs

This checklist covers IT infrastructure assessment, data backup and recovery procedures, access control policies, cybersecurity training, privacy compliance, cloud service management, and technology strategic planning.

It's recommended to conduct this audit annually, as well as after any significant changes to IT systems or in response to emerging cybersecurity threats.

Yes, by ensuring robust data protection and secure online transaction processes, this checklist can enhance donor trust and support more effective digital fundraising campaigns.

Absolutely. The checklist includes items related to secure remote access, mobile device management, and best practices for protecting data in distributed work environments.

By improving technology management and cybersecurity practices, this checklist helps organizations protect their assets, streamline operations, and leverage digital tools more effectively to achieve their mission objectives.

Benefits

Enhances protection of sensitive donor and beneficiary data

Improves operational efficiency through effective technology integration

Ensures compliance with data protection regulations and standards

Reduces risk of cyber attacks and data breaches

Increases stakeholder trust through demonstrated commitment to data security