Cyber Security Presentation

Cyber attacks are a threat to anyone that uses a computer connected to the Internet. This includes churches.

In today’s digital age, hackers use increasingly advanced techniques to break into systems, steal personal data, hold systems ransom, spread viruses, or do other types of cyber terrorism.

If you pay attention to news reports, you’ll have seen that data breaches have affected banks, stores, and even government systems. That’s why cyber security has become a part of daily life for many businesses.

While you might think that church information is of no interest to hackers, you actually house a great deal of data that they would love to steal. This includes:

• Contact information on members and attendees (addresses, pictures, phone and email). These records usually include information on minors. 
• Donation information (ACH, EFT, credit card information) 
• Security data—access to facilities, to computer programs
• Employee data
• and more

Cyber security ought to become a regular part of church life and practice, yet many churches are unprepared for common cyber-attacks.  

To help get you thinking about this issue and to provide a few first steps, the Information Technology team at the Christian Reformed Church in North America has put together the attached information. Why not share it with your congregation's administration team?