Cybercrime happens every day, all over the world, and ranges all across the spectrum of criminal activity. Metro Title & Escrow is constantly trying to protect our customers. We are closely working with professionals to make sure that we are current on virus and malware protection and ever progressing to counter-attack against Cybercrime.
Cybercrime includes but is not limited to phishing emails, malware/virus links, identity theft, money laundering and counterfeiting, human trafficking, wire fraud, and any attempts to steal information from a person or business. If there is an opportunity, cybercriminals will take it. With all of this cybercrime, everyone has to stay alert and tirelessly aware of the techniques that these hackers use.
The most common Cyberattack in 2021 were Phishing e-mail scams. Phishing e-mails mimic someone you know or a business that you trust with e-mails or attachments that “look” safe. They are specifically planned to trick their intended victims into giving up personal information or finances. They can also have links to click on that contain malware that immediately puts your computer at risk. Thousands of phishing scams happen every single day.
Cybercrime can be overwhelming, but can be reduced. Always use unique and hard to guess passwords that you change often. Use two-factor authentications. Verbally verify the authenticity of any requests for money or money transfers with a trusted person/business. Scrutinize all e-mails for anything out of the ordinary, and never click on any links that look “too good to be true” or even a little suspicious. Never be afraid to call and verify. Back up your data frequently and keep your malware services up to date. And last but not least, report any suspicious activity.
For your protection, if you receive an e-mail containing wire transfer instructions, always independently confirm the wiring information in person or call your escrow officer at Metro Title.
Unfortunately, Cybercrime is not going to go away any time soon. But we can all do our part to reduce the risks. At Metro, we are doing our best to make our company as safe as possible for you to trust us with your information. We are ever-shifting and growing to enhance our defenses against Cyber Fraud and Cybercrime.
