DENVER (April 2, 2025) — In response to the growing challenges in cybersecurity and regulatory compliance in financial services, the Financial Planning Association® (FPA®), the leading membership organization and trade association for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, partnered with FCI Cyber and Buckler, LLC., to launch the new Cybersecurity for Financial Planners: An FPA Certificate Program.
This comprehensive course is designed for financial planning professionals operating practices of all sizes. It equips them with crucial knowledge and skills to navigate today’s complex cyber landscape. As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated and regulatory demands rise, security responsibility often falls on professionals who may lack formal cybersecurity training.
“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 2025 FPA President Paul Brahim, CFP®. “With this certificate program, participants will not only enhance their understanding of cybersecurity but also ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of their practices.”
The program addresses this gap by providing participants with the tools to protect sensitive data while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards set by organizations such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), FINRA, the IRS, and the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).
The program features six 30-minute modules encompassing key foundational elements of a robust cybersecurity framework tailored to various practice sizes. Participants learn how to align their strategies with regulatory requirements, implement best practices, and foster a security culture within their organizations.
“This program equips them with practical strategies to protect client data and meet regulatory requirements. FCI is proud to support FPA in strengthening cybersecurity across the industry,” said Brian Edelman, chief executive officer of FCI.
“Cyber compliance is key to trust and regulatory success. Buckler is honored to collaborate with FPA and FCI in advancing cybersecurity education,” added Vincent Guyaux, chief information security officer of Buckler.
The self-paced, on-demand program qualifies for 3.5 CFP® CE credits. FPA members can enroll for $199, and nonmembers for $329. For more information, visit financialplanningassociation.org.