Cyber Security: How Brokerages Can Protect Themselves

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, and today we're looking at how brokers can better protect sensitive client data.

Digital security is increasingly complex goal to achieve. Every advance in technology brings new risks alongside the benefits. Wi-Fi untethered us from our desks and ethernet cables, but also made our devices vulnerable. The Internet opened up a new world of marketing, including on social media, but gave criminals an easy way to target their next victim. And let's not forget the rapidly evolving "Internet of Things" where wearable devices, appliances, cars, smart home technology and more are able to connect and "talk" to each other. No wonder cyber security is so complicated!

That said, there are steps brokers can take to ensure their firm is as safe as possible. Obviously, this includes things like securely storing digital documents and carefully evaluating software and other tech tools that handle client data (see more tips here). However, much of the security burden falls on agents' shoulders and the measures they take when they're away from the confines of your secure office. Below is a list of digital security tips you can share with your agents and staff to keep them (and their devices) as safe as possible:

1. Know how to identify a tampered document - While many brokers provide their agents with e-signature and transaction management solutions, some do not. Unfortunately those agents who "go it alone" don't always choose secure solutions that protect documents from tampering. That can jeopardize the legality of an entire transaction! To learn how to protect yourself, your client, and the sale, see Can You Trust That eSignature? How to Spot a Tampered Document.

2. Keep your computer healthy - Computer viruses are another big threat to your data. Here are a few solutions that can keep your PC out of harm's way. However, even if your computer does contract a virus, it doesn't have to be the end of the world. Regular backups will preserve your data even in a worst-case scenario. See How to Back Up Your Text Messages, Email, Calendars, and More.

3. Mind your Wi-Fi connection - Beware public wi-fi! While your home or work connection is generally safe, public wireless networks open you to a host of security threats. If that's the only choice you have, these four public wi-fi tips help with harm reduction.

4. Be a smart mobile user - It's not uncommon for agents to access their CRM or transaction management solution on their mobile device. But a breach of all of that sensitive data is a potential disaster waiting to happen. For ways to keep your phone and tablet secure, see 7 Smartphone Security Tips for Real Estate.

5. Be a smart web surfer - Whatever your feelings about Windows 10, Microsoft made one undeniably smart choice when it deep-sixed Internet Explorer in favor of its new Edge browser. Not only was IE subject to security vulnerabilities and frequent attacks, it also offered an inferior browsing experience. If you're a PC user who hasn't yet upgraded to Windows 10, you can protect yourself by switching to a better browser like Chrome or FireFox.

Brokers, what are your biggest cyber security concerns? Share with us in the comments below.