Glossary
User Management & Security

IP Allowlist for Nonprofit Databases

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
July 16, 2025

Definition:

An IP allowlist limits nonprofit database access to approved IP addresses for enhanced security.
An IP Allowlist for nonprofit databases is a security feature that restricts access to your organization’s database to specific, pre-approved IP addresses. By maintaining a list of trusted IP addresses, nonprofits can prevent unauthorized users or malicious actors from accessing sensitive donor, volunteer, and financial data. This approach is especially important for organizations with remote teams or multiple office locations, as it ensures only designated networks or devices can interact with the database. Setting up an IP allowlist strengthens cybersecurity, helps maintain data privacy compliance, and provides administrators with greater control over who can view or modify vital information.

Key Takeaways

  • Restricts database access to trusted IP addresses
  • Protects sensitive donor and financial data
  • Supports regulatory compliance for nonprofits
  • Essential for remote or multi-location teams

Why It Matters

It protects sensitive nonprofit data from unauthorized access and strengthens cybersecurity.

Real World Example

A national nonprofit manages donor information in a cloud-based CRM. To enhance security, they set up an IP allowlist so only staff connecting from the main office and approved remote locations can access their database. When a team member tries to log in from an unrecognized location or a public Wi-Fi network, access is denied. This prevents unauthorized individuals and potential cybercriminals from breaching confidential records, helping the organization comply with privacy regulations and reassuring donors that their information is safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IP allowlist?

An IP allowlist is a security feature that permits only specific, pre-approved IP addresses to access a system or database.

Why do nonprofits need an IP allowlist?

Nonprofits use IP allowlists to safeguard sensitive donor, volunteer, and financial data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

How does IP allowlisting work with Keela?

Keela allows organizations to specify trusted IP addresses, ensuring only approved users and networks can access the nonprofit's CRM and fundraising data.

Can remote staff access a database with IP allowlisting?

Yes, as long as their remote locations’ IP addresses have been added to the allowlist by the administrator.

Is IP allowlisting enough to secure nonprofit data?

IP allowlisting is a powerful tool, but it's best used alongside other measures like strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

Related Terms

Accessibility Compliance
Automation Trigger in a Nonprofit CRM
Average Gift Size
Board Member Profile
Bounce Rate
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