Real estate agents handling sensitive and private client information should be especially concerned about online security.
It is important to remain alert to some of the online traps that are out there and look to exploit individuals in these uncertain and tense times.
To significantly reduce your risk of being a victim of cybercrime, follow these tips when browsing the web to avoid being a victim:
Passwords
Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts
File downloads
It is advisable to only download files and applications from websites that you trust (e.g. official app stores or, for example, your bank)
Think before opening
Make sure you think before clicking on links in email, messages, or on social network sites. Don’t click on links in messages if you don’t know the sender or if you are not expecting them.
Take extra precaution
Before clicking on a link that seems suspicious or you are unsure of where it will lead, hover over it to see what web address it will take you to (usually at the bottom of the browser window).
Investigate suspicious links
Search for relevant key terms in your web browser instead of directly clicking the suspicious link if you don’t recognize or trust the address.
Be wary of shortened links
Check the safety of shortened URLs. Short URLs are used widely in social media. Services such as goo.gl, bit.ly, tinyurl.com, ow.ly, and youtube created short links.
When you click on a shortened link, you can see the original URL without clicking through to the destination by using an ‘expand link’ feature.
Make sure that the short URL expander you use is recommended by your anti-virus software or by a reputable software developer.
Too good to be true could be bad
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay away from websites that request your personal or banking details.
Not everyone is a friend
People aren’t always who they claim to be on social media networks, so don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.
If You’re Making An Online Purchase:
Cybercrime: How to Reduce Your Risk
Make sure the site is reputable and offers refunds
Make sure you use a secure connection when making payments. The payment page URL will use ‘https’ instead of ‘http’, and a padlock icon will appear in your browser.
Don’t make purchases online if you are uncertain about the website or have suspicions. Learn how to make purchases online safely.
Learn about threats like malware, phishing, identity theft, and other scams and fraud online, and sign up for Stay Smart Online’s regular alerts.
Using an adblocker can prevent malware from being delivered via your browser. Malvertising (also known as malvertising) can deliver malware through malicious advertising.
The AdBlock feature of some web browsers can be found in the Settings section under ‘Extensions’. For further help, search for adblocker in your web browser’s online help section.
Personal information should not be accessed or provided on public computers or Wi-Fi hotspots.
Avoid using public computers or Wi-Fi to conduct online banking or make payments with credit cards.
Online banking and public Wi-Fi should be used safely.
A Few Of The Possible Scenarios Which Show How Carelessness Can Cause Damage:
A web browser is opened and you begin browsing
Unknowingly, you visit a website that contains spyware, such as:
- Clicking on a pop-up, even to close it
- You follow a misleading link
- An unsafe path can be accessed through a clickable graphic
In some cases, the installation can begin with the opening of a web page or an HTML email
Your PC may be infected with spyware without your knowledge
Your computer is infected with a virus that exposes your personal information or worse, your data is encrypted and not accessible anymore.
Scammers often take advantage of people who are panicked or unsure in times of panic.
Follow the steps above to maintain a safe online presence and stay protected from online threats.