Cybercrime is a growing threat in today’s digital world, and it’s costing people a lot of money. According to Zippia.com, cybercrime cost people in the United States an estimated $6.9 billion in 2021 alone. Globally, an estimated 30,000 websites are hacked each day, and small businesses are particularly vulnerable, with 43% of cyber attacks targeting them. Even more concerning, only 5% of company folders and files are properly protected, leaving them at risk of being hacked.
It’s important to remember that cyber criminals are constantly coming up with new ways to attack, and just because you’re familiar with one type of attack doesn’t mean you’re safe from others. In fact, according to the same source, 95% of cyber attacks are due to human error, so it’s essential to be vigilant when dealing with anything electronic to avoid being attacked.
The real estate industry is especially vulnerable to cyber attacks due to the nature of its work and the sensitive information it handles. Real estate transactions involve a significant amount of financial information, personal details, and confidential documentation, making them a prime target for hackers. Real estate agents typically communicate with clients and other parties involved in a transaction through email and other digital channels, which can be vulnerable to cyber attacks such as phishing scams, malware, and ransomware. Additionally, real estate agents often use public Wi-Fi networks to conduct business, which can also pose a security risk.
Hackers may attempt to steal sensitive information from real estate agents by sending fake emails or creating fake websites that mimic legitimate real estate portals. They may also try to gain access to the agent’s computer or network by sending malware or ransomware. To protect themselves and their clients, real estate agents need to take steps to secure their digital communications and protect their devices from cyber threats.
There are several best practices that real estate agents can follow to safeguard their digital communications and devices. This includes using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, using secure email services, and avoiding public Wi-Fi networks. Real estate agents can also benefit from cyber security training and education to help them stay up-to-date on the latest threats and best practices for protecting their clients’ data. By taking proactive steps to protect their digital communications and devices, real estate agents can help ensure the security of their clients’ sensitive information and maintain the trust of their clients.