Safer Internet Day 2025: How Conveyancers Can Take Extra Steps to Stay Safe Online

Safer Internet Day takes place on the 11^th February 2025 each year and provides a vital reminder of the importance of online safety in all aspects of our lives. For conveyancers in the UK, this message is especially critical. Handling sensitive client information and managing significant financial transactions makes conveyancing firms a prime target for cybercriminals. As the digital world evolves, so do the tactics of those seeking to exploit vulnerabilities.

This Safer Internet Day let’s explore the unique challenges facing UK conveyancers and how they can take proactive steps to protect their businesses and clients.

Why Is Cybersecurity a Top Priority for Conveyancers?

Conveyancing involves managing high-value property transactions, where even minor lapses in cybersecurity can lead to catastrophic consequences. Cybercriminals often target this industry through sophisticated scams such as email interception, ransomware, and identity theft.

In the UK, reports of cybercrime targeting property transactions have been steadily rising, with scammers exploiting weaknesses in digital processes to steal funds or compromise data. According to the National Crime Agency (NCA), the conveyancing sector remains a high-risk area for fraud. By prioritising cybersecurity, conveyancers can comply with regulations, protect client trust, and safeguard their business reputation.

Key Cybersecurity Threats Facing Conveyancers

1. Friday Afternoon Fraud: A common UK scam where criminals intercept emails during property transactions, replacing bank details with their own. This often occurs just before funds are transferred, causing devastating financial losses.
2. Phishing Emails: Fraudsters may impersonate clients, lenders, or solicitors to trick conveyancers into sharing sensitive data or transferring money.
3. Ransomware Attacks: Hackers encrypt your data and demand payment for its release, leaving businesses unable to operate.
4. Data Breaches: Exposing personal and financial client information can lead to fines from regulators like the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and damage client relationships.
5. Compliance Risks: Non-compliance with regulations like the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) can result in significant fines and legal challenges.

Steps Conveyancers Can Take to Stay Safe Online

Here are practical ways UK conveyancers can strengthen their online security:

1. Use Secure Email Practices

• Email Encryption: Ensure all client communications are encrypted to prevent unauthorised access.
• Verification Procedures: Always confirm bank details provided via email by calling clients directly using verified contact details.
• Phishing Awareness: Train staff to spot phishing emails. Look out for misspellings, strange email addresses, or urgent requests.

2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Adding MFA to your systems ensures that even if passwords are compromised, additional verification (like a code sent to your phone) is required to access accounts.

3. Update Software and Systems

Keep all your software—such as case management platforms, anti-virus tools, and operating systems—up to date. Outdated systems are a common entry point for cybercriminals.

4. Regular Cybersecurity Training

Provide ongoing training to your team about the latest cyber threats. This can include spotting phishing scams, using secure passwords, and recognising suspicious activity.

5. Use Secure Payment Methods

Adopt payment platforms that are specifically designed for property transactions in the UK, such as those that comply with Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) guidelines. Remind clients to verify payment instructions over the phone before transferring funds.

6. Back Up Data

Regularly back up all critical data and store it securely. In the UK, ransomware attacks are increasing, and having secure backups can mean the difference between recovery and disaster.

7. Review and Strengthen Policies

Develop a formal cybersecurity policy tailored to your practice. This should include guidelines on data protection, secure communication, and how to handle potential breaches.

8. Conduct Regular Security Audits

Work with IT professionals to carry out regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify weaknesses.

9. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Ensure your office Wi-Fi is password-protected, using strong encryption methods such as WPA3. Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing sensitive information remotely.

10. Stay Compliant with UK Regulations

Familiarise yourself with regulations like UK GDPR, which requires the safe handling of personal data, and the SRA’s cybersecurity guidance. Failing to meet these standards could result in fines or other penalties.

Conveyancing Cybersecurity: A Shared Responsibility

Safer Internet Day is an opportunity for conveyancers to take stock of their current cybersecurity measures. With threats becoming more sophisticated, complacency is not an option. By implementing the steps above, firms can significantly reduce their risk and provide clients with the reassurance that their sensitive data and funds are safe.

Remember, cybersecurity isn’t just a technology issue—it’s a people issue. Training your team, staying informed, and embedding a culture of security in your practice are key steps to staying ahead of cybercriminals.

What Will You Do This Safer Internet Day?

Take action to safeguard your firm and clients. Whether it’s updating your systems, running a cybersecurity training session, or reviewing your compliance policies, every step you take strengthens your defences.

Stay safe online, and let’s work together to make the internet a safer place for everyone.