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DD Web • Oct 16, 2017
Cyber Security Check-up: How We Protect Your Real Estate Transaction
Did you know? October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, and with companies connected to our industry making recent headlines after reporting data breaches (Equifax, Gmail, Verizon and the California Board of Realtors), it’s a good reminder that cyber crime is a growing and ever-changing worldwide problem.
An increased use of technology in our business to manage data and complete real estate transactions means an increase in digital security threats. The more connected we become, the more vulnerabilities and checkpoints exist. Email phishing scams, ransomware and wire transfer fraud and theft are all serious threats when conducting a real estate transaction, and it is our job as a title company to be one step ahead of these ‘scammers.’
Small real estate businesses, agents and their clients are increasingly becoming the targets of sophisticated cyber scammers, according to the National Association of Realtors. In recent months, real estate professionals have reported an upswing in a particular wire scam, where a hacker breaks into an agent’s email account and obtains information about upcoming real estate transactions.
With new threats emerging, now is a good time to evaluate the strength of your company’s cyber security plan. Here are some tips for protecting your network and valuable data, your clients private and financial information — and your reputation.
Use modern software and update it regularly. Any business conducting real estate transactions should be on the latest version of their operating system and automatically apply updates.
Protect your network with advanced firewall security and encrypt sensitive data.
Regularly backup data that is stored on computers and/or networks.
Use secure Wi-Fi networks and avoid public Wi-Fi networks when accessing certain emails and documents.
Use unique passwords and change them frequently. Admin, administrator or the name of your website domain should be avoided as usernames.
Consider implementing multi-factor authentication for access to certain email and online accounts, as well as access to your network through wireless devices.
Use a secure email server and avoid free email services. While cloud and free email services are convenient for business, they are never completely secure.
Set up a procedure with home buyers and sellers in the beginning of a transaction that indicates how funds will be disbursed. Ensure that every party in the real estate transaction knows to communicate changes to funds transfer instructions either in person or through a dedicated phone number.
Educate all employees on your company’s cyber security policies and the importance of verifying wiring instructions; implement a cyber security response plan in the event of a breach.
Despite your magnitude and infrastructure, no business is completely immune from cyber attacks in today’s world. There are, however, effective strategies and precautionary steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk and protect you in the event of an attack. At Novation Title, we take extra measures to protect our clients from any cyber/wire fraud during a real estate transaction. Be careful and BE AWARE!
-The Novation Team
Hey there, future homeowner! So, you're diving into the wild world of real estate, huh? Exciting times ahead! 🏡 But hold up – before you pop the champagne, let's talk about something crucial: choosing your title company. Now, who gets to decide on this? Spoiler alert: it's you! Sure, your real estate agent or lender might throw a few suggestions your way, but ultimately, the choice is yours. So, let's make it count! First things first, do some snooping around. Check out different title companies online, ask your pals for recommendations, and see what vibes with you. You want someone reliable, experienced, and who's got your back, no matter what. Oh, and don't be shy – ask questions! Seriously, grill them like you're on a first date. How long have they been in the game? What's their process like? And most importantly, can they handle your quirks and concerns like a champ? Remember, this isn't just about paperwork – it's about peace of mind. Your home sweet home is a big deal, so choose a title company that feels like the perfect fit. Trust me, it'll make all the difference when it's time to pop those keys in the door!
February is not just about Valentine's Day chocolates and romantic gestures; it's also about spreading love and kindness to those who need it most. And boy, did we have an amazing time doing just that with our February Giveback! This month, we teamed up with the incredible For The Kids nonprofit to make a difference in the lives of children in our community. And let us tell you, it was a heartwarming experience from start to finish. First things first, our team rolled up their sleeves and dove straight into action. We spent a day volunteering, packing a whopping 100 meals to be delivered to those in need. The joy of knowing that these meals would bring smiles to the faces of children warmed our hearts in ways we can't even describe. But we didn't stop there! Oh no, we were just getting started. With our sleeves still rolled up and our spirits soaring, our very own Joe packed the truck with all those delicious deliveries for that Friday. The excitement was palpable as we imagined the happiness these meals would bring to families across our community. And guess what? Our amazing supporters rallied behind us in full force! Through their generosity, we collected over 100 additional items to donate to For The Kids. From canned goods to pantry staples, every single donation meant the world to us and to those we're helping. As we reflect on our February Giveback journey, we can't help but feel overwhelmingly grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to make a difference. Grateful for the support of our community. And most of all, grateful for the chance to spread love in every way we can. It's worth mentioning that our dedication to For The Kids goes way back – we supported their mission back in 2021, and we're committed to continuing this beautiful partnership for years to come. To everyone who volunteered, donated, or simply cheered us on from the sidelines – thank you. Thank you for believing in the power of kindness. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Together, we're making the world a brighter, happier place, one meal and one smile at a time.
The curtains have risen, the confetti is in the air, and we are ecstatic to share the electrifying plans Novation Title has in store for 2024! This year's big reveal event was nothing short of a spectacle. Hosted on Zoom, it was a virtual fiesta with most of our incredible team. We kicked off the event with a bang, unveiling not just launches but also insights from a unique case study involving over 250 Agents. Picture this: a backstage pass to what the real estate game-changers need in 2023. It's a report that's about to revolutionize the way we navigate the real estate landscape. There were reminders of the tools that spark creativity at Novation Title – from ecording rooms to meditation rooms. We also shared all about Nova Connect, and an exclusive savings opportunity. A mic drop moment, unveiling our Referral Program, updated Diamond Partnership and Diamond Plus perks, and our Nova Show: Real Estate Records Podcast now with fresh episodes every week. As if that weren't enough, Novation Title is officially rocking the YouTube scene as of Season 3! The website got its moment in the spotlight as we went through its hidden treasures. Real Estate Pop Bys, the Title Rate Calculator – it's like a digital treasure hunt. And let's not forget the Nova Academy Calendar, our roadmap to success with all of our class schedules. Speaking of Nova Academy, we shared the excitement about upgraded classes tailored to your needs. Learning just got a whole lot more thrilling! We put the spotlight on Nova Stories – and how we have updated this experience to help you. Lights, camera, action! Novation Title's values – the Give Backs that have shaped our community. From Primary Children's Hospital to Sub for Santa, we've been making a difference for over six years. We are so excited for all of our upcoming community services. Novation Nation, are you as pumped as we are? The future is now, and we're ready to take 2024 by storm. Stay tuned for more updates, adventures, and game-changing moments from Novation Title. Here's to an extraordinary year ahead!
REDEFINING THE EXPERIENCE
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