Despite the constantly increasing sophistication and number of threats to cybersecurity, advisors have had little in the way of training beyond frequent sessions on the topic held at conferences.
Now, however, there is a certificate program being offered through the Financial Planning Association that will not only boost a CFP certificant’s cybersecurity knowledge but also earn them 2.5 CFP CE credits.
Called the Cybersecurity for Financial Planners certificate program, the course was designed and is being delivered in a virtual format similar to a hands-on workshop. Those completing the training will receive a digital certificate and have a “compliant cybersecurity plan for their firm” according to the FPA announcement of the program.
The FPA worked in partnership with cybersecurity provider FCI to develop the program, which is broken into six sections. These include an introduction covering some of the historical highlights and lowlights of computer, network and internet security; a session on the constituents of a firm’s program, which is broken down by controls, sections and policies; and four more sessions delving more deeply into the why and how that ultimately results in participants creating a plan for their firm.
“A tremendous amount of data and assets are at stake, and financial planning professionals are a prime target for cyber thieves. With billions of dollars lost each year due to cybercrime, it’s imperative financial planners earn client loyalty and trust by embracing a cybersecurity strategy that keeps data and assets safe,” said 2020 FPA President Martin C. Seay.
“Financial advisers can now leverage the certificate to implement and manage their cyber program to reduce their risk,” said FCI CEO Brian Edelman.
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