Data security weak at realty companies

As real estate companies become more reliant on technology and Web-based systems to conduct business, data security is gaining more importance as a business concern.

In a recent Inman News reader poll, 39 percent of respondents said they are somewhat confident their technology systems are secure. Thirty-five percent said they were very confident in their data security, and 24 percent said they weren't confident at all. The remaining respondents were either unsure of their security level or felt it was not an issue within their offices.

One reader responded that, "any technology using the Internet as transport is not secure. Period."

Data security and privacy experts say companies need to manage their privacy and security policies more closely to improve consumer trust and protect themselves from lawsuits.

The increased vulnerability of computers to viruses and other attacks, increased use of computers in conducting real estate transactions and new consumer privacy legislation all contribute to real estate companies' need to heighten their awareness of security issues and tighten their preventative security methods.

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