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Norwegian Refugee Council leverages Okta for Good cyber scheme

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Norwegian Refugee Council leverages Okta for Good cyber scheme

Okta, a tech, identity, and access management (IAM) technology supplier, introduced a Secure Identity Commitment in early 2024 following a series of high-profile data breaches originating from its platform. The commitment includes measures such as strengthening its infrastructure, implementing internal security-by-design policies, and promoting customer best practices.

As part of this initiative, Okta invested millions of dollars into its existing corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, Okta for Good, to provide security assistance to non-profits and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on issues like climate change and social justice.

One of the organizations benefiting from Okta for Good is the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), a long-standing European refugee charity founded in 1945 to aid displaced people after World War II. The NRC’s core mission is to protect the rights of displaced and vulnerable individuals during crises by providing aid, supporting UN and NGO efforts, and advocating for long-term solutions to the global refugee crisis.

The NRC operates worldwide, reaching 10 million people annually with a budget of $750 million and a team of around 15,000 employees. The organization is headquartered in Oslo, with a tech team in Berlin, and IT staff often deployed to conflict zones to address challenges and opportunities directly.

Pietro Galli, the NRC’s CIO, spent over a decade working in various conflict zones before transitioning to IT leadership. He emphasizes the importance of using technology to support the organization’s mission effectively and efficiently.

Cyber challenges for NGOs

NGOs face significant cybersecurity risks, including financial cyber threats and targeted attacks from nation-states. The NRC, in particular, deals with cyber warfare threats in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine, relying on security providers like Okta for protection.

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Galli highlights the importance of addressing common cybersecurity threats, such as phishing attacks and malware, along with challenges specific to operating in conflict zones with limited infrastructure and internet restrictions.

‘Do no harm’

The NRC’s work with governments and vulnerable populations requires strict data protection practices to avoid harm. Okta for Good has helped the organization develop principles and training materials for staff on data responsibility and ethical digital practices.

Galli emphasizes the importance of the “do no harm” principle in humanitarian work, especially in digital contexts where people may lack digital literacy. He recalls a poignant experience in South Sudan, highlighting the importance of considering the impact of technology on vulnerable populations.

More of the NRC’s operations have transitioned to digital platforms, requiring the organization to take on greater responsibility in providing assistance to individuals in need. Galli emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the power imbalance in their interactions with those seeking help, especially in digital contexts. For instance, during the crisis in Ukraine, the NRC successfully registered over half a million refugees using online tools such as chatbots and two-way communication features, enabling swift distribution of financial aid through the banking system.

The NRC’s IT journey differs significantly from that of a private sector entity, with limited investment in technology compared to other businesses. Okta plays a crucial role in allowing the organization to enhance its capabilities with minimal resources, empowering staff to focus on essential humanitarian efforts worldwide. Furthermore, Okta’s commitment to understanding the NRC’s mission has led to valuable collaborations, including technology leadership programs and grants for data responsibility initiatives.

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In addition to grants and advocacy for cybersecurity, the NRC and Okta have established a commercial partnership to leverage cloud technology for scalability and efficiency. Through Okta’s Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions, the NRC has streamlined user authentication processes and enhanced security measures across various applications and environments. Looking ahead, the NRC aims to collaborate more closely with local partners, utilizing Okta’s security capabilities to extend protection to partners operating in challenging and resource-constrained settings.

Overall, the NRC’s relationship with Okta has been instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency, cybersecurity measures, and collaboration with external partners, reflecting a shared commitment to making a positive impact in the humanitarian sector. Can you rewrite this sentence?

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