Latest insight on key cyber threats was high on the agenda as representatives of more than 25 charities and non-profit organisations attended a law firm’s seminar on how to operate safely online.

Held at the Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth, Ellis Jones Solicitors’ event attracted a keen audience from sectors spanning mental health and palliative care to heritage and marine rescue. On the expert panel for a question-and-answer session were a mix of in-house Ellis Jones speakers and external presenters.

Areas under discussion included AI-powered scams, phishing attacks, ransomware, unauthorised data breaches, website hacks, insurance cover, supplier risks and unregulated device policies.

George Complin, Principal Consultant at Poole-based IT and telecoms provider Grapevine, gave advice on practical strategies to help safeguard sensitive data, spot and stop common cyberattacks and build a culture of security awareness.

He also explained some of the reasons why charities are being increasingly targeted by cyber criminals.

“Charities hold valuable data but may operate with more limited cybersecurity resources compared to better-resourced private companies,” he said.

Fellow speaker James Trevis, Cyber and Technology Portfolio Manager for insurer NFU Mutual, discussed how to avoid common cyber risk pitfalls. Highlighting the importance of insurance for charities, he offered guidance on selecting the correct policy to mitigate damage and described what happens in the event of a cyber insurance claim.

Ellis Jones experts at the seminar included Managing Partner Nigel Smith, Partner & Solicitor Kate Brooks, Partner & Solicitor Victoria Riddleston and Senior Associate Rosemary Drew.

Nigel said:

“This event was especially relevant given the rise in AI and other new cyber crime vulnerabilities. How best to derisk cybersecurity and ensure robust data protection will become an ever more vital consideration for charities and third-sector organisations just as it is in the commercial world.”

Ellis Jones has held charity seminars throughout each year since 2017. To prepare these, the firm’s charity team consider the areas affecting charities and respond to requests for agenda content from charity representatives.

Previous seminars have covered topics such as trustee duties, charity governance, employee and volunteer rights and duties, tax considerations for charities, will disputes affecting charity legacies and factors to consider when investing charity funds.

For more information on Ellis Jones’ support for the charity sector, and to sign up to the firm’s charities mailing list, visit Charity Solicitors | Charity Law | Ellis Jones Solicitors.