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How Your Real Estate Company Can Prevent Hacking And Thieves

Written by Posted On Thursday, 10 August 2017 08:26

When it comes to hosting sensitive data, real estate companies veer near the top of the list. When you think about it, your firm currently might be hosting a treasure trove of information, including social security numbers, bank statements, names, addresses, and the list could go on-and-on. That’s why for your company, cyber security needs to be a top priority.

While being hacked is something that no one ever thinks they’re going to fall into, it’s something much more widespread than you might imagine. Even if you personally are taking a lot of preventive measures, that’s not to say your entire company is, which could potentially put your entire firm in danger. However, not to worry, as there are plenty of things you can do in the intermediary to get your team up to speed.

Despite the dangers, cyber attacks can easily be prevented by following a few simple steps. Plus, implementing a transparent system will not only save you thousands (if not millions) but will additionally give your customers a sense of comfortability as well. Check out our helpful guide below to learn more:

Look Out For Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are one of the most popular styles of cyber threats around. As noted by PhishMe, 91% of hacks come from phishing schemes, and if your business isn’t careful, they could fall victim as well.

Essentially, phishing schemes are where hackers send out fraudulent materials (usually emails) that appear to look like they come from a legitimate source. They generally target widely-used services (like PayPal, cable/internet companies, etc.), utilizing the same logos, typefaces, and other design elements to appear as though they’re coming from that actual company. A common practice is adding a sense of urgency (I.E.: Action Required- Your Account Has Been Hacked), to which the participant usually is required to enter a piece of personal information or login credentials that can then be used to access other data points.

To prevent yourself from falling victim, always check that the sender has an actual email address from the service listed. For example, if it’s an email from Comcast, then the address should be @comcast.com. I’ll note some hackers will try to use similar addresses (I.E.: @comcasthelp.com or @comcastsecurity.com) or are using a random return address. Additionally, always check the design elements in comparison to those of the actual source, as well as point out any grammatical errors. Finally, if you’re still concerned over if the email you received is a phishing attack, consult with the service at hand to see if they sent you an email.

Arm Yourself With The Right Tools

One of the best things that you can do to combat against hacks is set yourself up with the right preventive software. This includes encrypting your files, using a secured server, setting up firewalls, establishing network security protocols, and having endpoint security software installed. Products like this will help you catch any red flags that might pop up, as well as can run audits on your system that accurately detect any threats.

Honestly, you’d be surprised at the amount of companies that try to cut corners by not investing in cyber security. I know to some it might seem like a good way to cut corners, but doing so can cost you tremendously in the long run. After all, your data is one of the most valuable assets your business possess, and should not be taken lightly. This isn’t just your company’s information, but your customers (and even potential customers) as well. Take the time to set yourself up with a solid cyber security platform, and bring on the folks that you need to help run it.

Beware Of Any Links or Files

One surefire way hackers access your information is by trying to get you to interact with a download link. This is how the most recent WannaCry attack occurred, and is something much more common than most folks would like to believe. However, preventing against this trend is much easier than you’d imagine.

First, don’t click or download anything from an email that isn’t coming from within your company or a trusted client. Additionally, be wary of comments on your blog that include links, even if they seem like a genuine contribution to the discussion you might be having. I know it seems like an extra precaution, but cyber attacks and ransomware can be a humongous headache on your business, and something extraordinarily damaging.

With so many hackers and thieves looking to take advantage of your business for sport, what methods will you be taking to ensure a safe and sound security system?

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David Wither

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