ValueWalk may generously provide the public with “77 Facts About Cybercrime” but they’re also here to teach us about “Cybercrime and How to Prevent It.”
Here at BuyerDocs, we’d like to focus on what we consider the 2 most pertinent facts ValueWalk shares.
First, 91% of cyber attacks begin with email phishing. We here at BuyerDocs cannot stress the importance of educating clients, real estate agents, and employees about the dangers of email phishing and hacking. Always be on the look out for strange misspellings you wouldn’t expect from your client or associate; double check incoming email addresses to make sure they are legitimate; pick up the phone and make a call if you have any doubt. But don’t call the number listed in the fraudulent email’s signature – it’s likely to be fake.
Second, ValueWalk shares with us that “30% of phishing emails are actually opened,” and “12% of those targeted click on the infecting link.” These numbers are shocking. Again, we emphasize the importance of double checking the email address and domain names coming through your email service. But just because you’ve been tricked into opening a phishing email, doesn’t mean you have to fall for all their tricks. Never open an attachment from an unknown source, or an attachment from a questionable domain. In addition, never click on a link or hyperlink without hovering over it to see where the link will lead you. Is it a trusted site? Do you recognize it? Would you open it on your home computer? Try Google searching for the site to make sure it’s legitimate.
If you’re interested in the rest of ValueWalk’s “77 Facts About Cybercrime,” head on over to their website (but you better hover over that hyperlink to make sure it’s safe).