AI-Driven Cyber Threats: A Growing Risk for Charities and Non-Profits

AI-Driven Cyber Threats: A Growing Risk for Charities and Non-Profits

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, charities and non-profit organisations are increasingly at risk from sophisticated cyber threats, many of which are powered by artificial intelligence (AI). As these organisations continue to rely on digital tools to engage donors, manage resources, and deliver critical services, the cyber security stakes have never been higher.

Emerging AI-Driven Threats

AI is a double-edged sword. While it offers incredible opportunities for innovation, it also empowers malicious actors with new capabilities to exploit vulnerabilities. Some of the most concerning AI-driven threats include:

• Voice Mimicry: Using recordings from social media platforms like TikTok or Xbox, threat actors can now convincingly mimic voices to deceive individuals or organisations.
• Hyper-Realistic Media: Fake images and videos that look authentic can be used to manipulate or mislead.
• Impersonation via Voiceovers: AI-generated voiceovers enable convincing impersonations, making phishing and social engineering attacks more believable than ever before.

These sophisticated tactics are particularly alarming for charities, which often operate with limited resources and may lack robust cyber security measures.

Why Charities Are More Vulnerable

The charity sector is uniquely vulnerable to cyber threats for several reasons:

1. High Trust Environments: Charities rely on trust to build relationships with donors, beneficiaries, and volunteers. This makes them prime targets for impersonation attacks.
2. Sensitive Data: From donor financial details to sensitive beneficiary information, charities handle data that is highly attractive to cybercriminals.
3. Limited Budgets: Many non-profits operate on tight budgets, leaving little room for investment in advanced cyber security measures.
4. Awareness Gaps: A lack of awareness or expertise in cyber security can leave charities unprepared to identify and respond to threats.

The Importance of Proactive Measures

Taking proactive steps to safeguard your organisation is essential. Consider the following:

• Cyber Security Baseline Assessment: At Intersys, we offer a complimentary Cyber Security Baseline Assessment tailored to charities and non-profits using our, 'Hierarchy of Cyber Security Needs,' approach. This is our proprietary framework, inspired by guidelines from the UK National Cyber Security Centre and regulations like NIS 2, ensures a structured approach to building robust defences.

AI and Charity Sector Statistics

• A staggering 50% of UK businesses reported a cyber breach or attack in the past year (Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024). Charities are no exception.
• Reports indicate that cybercriminals increasingly target charities, with AI-powered attacks on the rise, highlighting the need for vigilance.

Partner with Experts

Protecting your organisation from AI-driven threats doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Intersys, we’re committed to supporting charities with tailored solutions that address their unique challenges.

Our expertise in cyber security, combined with our understanding of the charity sector, makes us a trusted partner for organisations looking to safeguard their mission.

Book your free Cyber Security Baseline Assessment today and take the first step towards a secure future - Cyber Security Consulting Services | Consultancy for SMES

#CyberSecurity #AI #Charities #NonProfits #CyberThreats #Intersys #CyberSecurityConsulting

#CyberSecurity #AI #SMEs #CyberThreats #Intersys #CyberSecurityConsulting