We live a digital world and increasingly, the digital market place is where sellers, buyers and agents liaise, correspond and transact. While digitalisation has brought about significant advancement, access and convenience, it has also brought rapidly rising cybercrime, something that has even penetrated property transactions in an ever more sophisticated way.
It is a global phenomenon and the risks of scammers getting hold of your personal data is high. Here are a few things which the cyber experts recommend:
Protect your identity – everyone with a bank account, online identity or credit rating is at risk, so take extra care when you have to provide your private details such as your full names, identity or passport numbers and especially bank account or credit card details.
Be socially savvy - social media can provide a way in for criminals and it is important to ensure that your privacy settings are tight. Do not accept ‘friend’ requests from strangers and take care with dodgy online quizzes as they are so-called ‘clickbait’, generally aimed at gaining access (limited) to your Facebook account and personal information.
Security software – protect your computer and smartphone with strong, up-to-date security software. Malware (malicious software) is constantly evolving and you therefore need to ensure that your security software is up to the task of protecting you.
Spot spam and scams - phishing scams are becoming more sophisticated. Always check the address from where it is sent. Delete anything which appears to be a strange email or website address immediately as a precaution.
Use strong passwords – avoid easily identifiable names and birth dates. Rather, use a mix of letters and characters as obscure as possible. Regularly change your passwords and make use of a two-step authentication system where a code is for example sent to your cell phone as extra protection when possible.
Watch your cash – a brief lapse in concentration can cost you dearly. Never react to an email asking you to update personal information or passwords. The banks will never send those by email, nor will they ask you to do so telephonically. Check your bank account regularly or any strange deductions.
Property transactions – Seeff will never send an email advising a change to our banking details or the Conveyancing Attorneys' banking details. If you receive any such emails (including from a Conveyancing Attorney), notify us immediately. Always confirm the bank details and amounts directly with the relevant Seeff representative before making payment.
Home is our story and property our passion. If you would like to chat about your next property move, contact us today!
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