Here are four ways you can help protect yourself from cybercrime.
Real estate has experienced a dramatic rise in cybercrime in the last few years. The pandemic has made the problem worse as transactions become more digital and people work from unsecured networks at home. The FBI received nearly double the number of cybercrime complaints in 2020 compared to 2019. I’m not trying to scare you, but you have to be aware of the potential dangers as a buyer or seller.
Let’s go over four tips that can help protect you from cybercrime:
1. Use multi-factor authentication. This includes apps like google authenticator, which can give you added protection.
2. Beware of suspicious links. These links could contain malware. Be especially careful when you are wiring funds.
“You have to be aware of the threat of cybercrime as a buyer or seller.”
3. Watch for red flags. This includes things like an email changing wiring instructions. A title company will rarely change wiring instructions.
4. Act quickly if you suspect fraud. Every second counts. Ask your bank to recall the funds, file a complaint with law enforcement, and visit ic3.gov to file a complaint as well.
At the Tami Holmes team, we work hard to make sure your transaction goes smoothly. We want to help protect your hard-earned money. If you have any questions about this or other real estate topics, feel free to give me a call at 1 (800)-722-2585.
