Strengthening Cybersecurity in Humanitarian Efforts: The Launch of the Global Humanitarian ISAC

In an era where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more critical, especially for organizations dedicated to humanitarian efforts. Recognizing this urgent need, NetHope recently announced the launch of the Partner Collective for the Global Humanitarian Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Global Humanitarian ISAC) during the 2024 NetHope Global Summit. This initiative aims to unite various organizations committed to enhancing cybersecurity for global humanitarian and conservation nonprofits, ensuring that they can continue their vital work without the looming threat of cyberattacks.

A Collaborative Approach to Cybersecurity

The Global Humanitarian ISAC is a collaborative effort spearheaded by industry leaders such as Okta and Cisco, alongside partners like BeyondID, the NGO-ISAC, SANS, and Slack. Together, these organizations will provide essential funding, expertise, tools, and technology to support the mission of the Global Humanitarian ISAC. Notably, NetHope and Okta have committed $2.5 million over five years to bolster this initiative, underscoring the importance of a united front in the fight against cyber threats.

The Rising Tide of Cyberattacks

Cyberattacks against organizations, particularly international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), have surged in recent years. The stakes are high; the digital safety of these organizations is paramount for protecting the vulnerable populations they serve and their employees. As cybersecurity risks become more complex, relying on solitary defenses is no longer viable. According to the 2024 State of Humanitarian and Development Cybersecurity Report by NetHope, 65% of surveyed nonprofit members reported experiencing a security breach in the past year, with over half expressing a lack of confidence in their cybersecurity management.

The consequences of these breaches can be dire. For instance, in 2022, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), a member of NetHope, fell victim to a sophisticated cyberattack that compromised personal data of over 515,000 vulnerable individuals. This breach forced the ICRC to temporarily halt critical programs aimed at reuniting families separated by conflict and migration, highlighting the real-world impact of cybersecurity failures.

The Mission of the Global Humanitarian ISAC

The Global Humanitarian ISAC serves as a central platform that facilitates collaboration among governments, funders, technology companies, and other trusted providers. Its primary goal is to address the spectrum of information security needs faced by nonprofits and the communities they serve. By identifying key gaps and barriers to nonprofit cybersecurity, the ISAC aims to enhance the protection of sensitive information and implement effective cyber defenses, ultimately reducing the risk of harm to beneficiaries and minimizing economic or reputational losses for nonprofits.

Enhancing Communication and Collaboration

One of the core functions of the Global Humanitarian ISAC is to provide a shared space for improved communication and collaboration on security issues. By fostering greater information exchange and joint training initiatives, the ISAC aims to empower humanitarian, aid, and development organizations to operate more securely in complex environments. This strengthened coordination not only raises baseline capabilities but also promotes a unified approach to safeguarding critical humanitarian initiatives worldwide.

Tailored Solutions for Nonprofits

The Global Humanitarian ISAC has been designed with input from 30 organizations and 10 partners, ensuring that it meets the specific needs of nonprofits. The ISAC offers a range of solutions, including:

• Surfacing Cyber Threats: Identifying and addressing cyber threats with context-specific defenses.
• Training and Capacity Building: Equipping nonprofit staff with the skills needed for effective digital threat response.
• Providing Tools and Technologies: Supplying resources to monitor and respond to cyber risks effectively.

Addressing Resource Deficits

NetHope’s research highlights the interconnected nature of the challenges nonprofits face in digital protection and cybersecurity. Many organizations struggle with limited resources and expertise, which poses significant barriers to building robust digital defenses. The Global Humanitarian ISAC aims to bridge these gaps, ensuring that nonprofits have access to the necessary tools and knowledge to protect sensitive data and maintain critical services.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The launch of the Global Humanitarian ISAC represents a significant step forward in the collective effort to enhance cybersecurity within the humanitarian sector. By fostering collaboration and providing tailored solutions, this initiative aims to empower nonprofits to navigate the complex landscape of cyber threats effectively. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the commitment to protecting the digital rights of vulnerable populations remains paramount. The Global Humanitarian ISAC stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that humanitarian organizations can continue their vital work without the fear of cyber threats undermining their mission.