The Financial Planning Association has launched a new certificate program, Cybersecurity for Financial Planners, in response to the increasing challenges of cybersecurity and regulatory compliance in financial services.
Produced in partnership with FCI Cyber and Buckler, LLC., the course is appropriate for financial planning professionals with practices of all sizes, the FPA said in a news release. The program provides crucial knowledge and skills to deal with today’s cyber landscape, the FPA said. “As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated and regulatory demands rise, security responsibility often falls on professionals who may lack formal cybersecurity training,” according to the release.
“The launch of the Cybersecurity for Financial Planners certificate program reflects FPA’s commitment to equipping financial planners with the necessary tools to safeguard their practices and clients in an ever-changing modern world,” said FPA President Paul Brahim. “With this certificate program, participants will not only enhance their understanding of cybersecurity but also ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of their practices.”
The course provides participants with the tools to protect sensitive data while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards set by organizations such as CFP Board of Standards, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the Internal Revenue Service, and the New York Department of Financial Services.
The program is divided into six 30-minute modules covering elements of a cybersecurity framework tailored to a range of practice sizes. Participants learn how to meet regulatory requirements, follow best practices, and foster a security culture at their practice. Participants will understand how to secure their firms and deal with cyber attackers and regulators.
“This program equips them with practical strategies to protect client data and meet regulatory requirements,” said FCI CEO Brian Edelman. “FCI is proud to support FPA in strengthening cybersecurity across the industry.”
Cybersecurity for Financial Planners is a self-paced, on-demand program. The program is now open and qualifies for 3.5 CFP CE credits. FPA members can enroll for $199, and the price for nonmembers is $329. For more information about the program or to enroll.
