How to Protect Your Personal Data When Buying or Selling a Home Online

The world of real estate has undergone a massive transformation. Today, you can browse listings, schedule virtual tours, and even close a deal—all from the comfort of your home. No more exhausting weekend house-hunting marathons. No more stacks of paperwork piling up on your desk. But with convenience comes risk. Cybercriminals are well aware that online real estate transactions involve large sums of money, sensitive personal data, and a sense of urgency—creating the perfect storm for scams and data breaches.

So, how do you navigate this digital landscape safely? How do you ensure your financial and personal information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands? Let’s break it down.

Use Secure and Trusted Platforms—Not Every Website is Your Friend

Your first line of defense is choosing the right platform.

• Stick with reputable websites and agencies. Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin? Trusted. A random site with listings that seem too good to be true? Think twice.
• Look for HTTPS. Ever noticed that little padlock icon in your browser’s address bar? It means the website encrypts your data. No padlock? No deal.
• Check for security certifications. If a website claims to be secure, they should be able to back it up with certifications like ISO 27001 or PCI DSS for payment security.

Keep Your Personal Information Under Lock and Key

Tempted to share your full name, phone number, or even financial details in a public listing or online chat? Don’t.

• Limit the details you post publicly. The less information you share, the harder it is for scammers to target you.
• Use a VPN. A VPN can protect your information and the data you send from strangers. For example, the popular VPN VeePN UK offers double encryption, supports a no-logs policy, and phishing protection. Any leaks during data transfer are impossible when using it.
• Watch out for oversharing on social media. Talking about your home-buying journey? That’s fine. Mentioning your budget or posting contract details? Dangerous.
• Only share sensitive data through secure channels. If an agent or buyer asks for personal details via email or text, verify their identity before responding.

Verify Buyers and Sellers

Fake listings. Phantom buyers. Fraudulent sellers. The scams are endless.

• Check property records. Public records can confirm if a seller actually owns the property they’re listing.
• Use official communication channels. Avoid dealing with buyers or sellers who insist on using private messaging apps instead of verified real estate platforms.
• Be skeptical of urgency. Scammers often push for quick action. “Send me a deposit today, or the deal is gone!” If it feels rushed, walk away.

Secure Financial Transactions

Real estate deals involve big money, and cybercriminals are eager to get their cut.

• Use secure payment methods. Escrow services add a layer of security by holding funds until all conditions are met.
• Be cautious of wire fraud. In 2023 alone, real estate wire fraud cost victims over $350 million, according to the FBI. Before sending money, call (don’t email) to verify bank details with a trusted source.
• Watch for phishing emails posing as banks or agents. If you receive an email asking for immediate payment, pause. Verify the sender before clicking any links.

Strengthen Your Cybersecurity

Online real estate platforms store sensitive data, and weak security habits can make you an easy target.

• Use strong, unique passwords. “123456” won’t cut it. Aim for at least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Even if someone steals your password, 2FA adds an extra barrier.
• Update your devices. Cybercriminals exploit outdated software. Keep your phone, laptop, and browser up to date.

Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams

Scammers often impersonate real estate agents, lenders, or escrow companies to steal information.

• Look for red flags. Typos, vague greetings (“Dear Customer”), and urgent demands for action are signs of phishing attempts.
• Don’t click suspicious links. Even a single click on a fraudulent email link can compromise your data.
• Verify before you act. If an email claims to be from your bank or agent, call them directly using a known phone number.

Secure Your Important Documents

Real estate transactions involve sensitive paperwork. Treat it like gold.

• Encrypt important files before sharing. Tools like WinZip, 7-Zip, or built-in encryption features on Windows and macOS can add a layer of protection.
• Use secure cloud storage. Google Drive and Dropbox offer encrypted file storage, but always enable two-factor authentication.
• Avoid sending documents over public Wi-Fi. Hackers love unsecured networks. If you must send files on the go, use a VPN.

Work with Licensed Professionals

Not all real estate professionals are legitimate. Some are fraudsters in disguise.

• Verify credentials. Licensed agents should be registered with your state’s real estate board.
• Get legal help for large transactions. A real estate attorney can review contracts and spot red flags you might miss.
• Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals. A dream home at half the market price? A “buyer” offering cash with no questions asked? If it sounds unrealistic, it probably is.

Final Thoughts—Stay Smart, Stay Safe

The internet has made buying and selling homes easier, but it’s also made scams more sophisticated. Protect your personal and financial data by using secure platforms, verifying identities, and strengthening your cybersecurity. Stay cautious, trust your instincts, and when in doubt—ask questions.

In real estate, as in life, if something feels off, it probably is.