A few thoughts at the end of cyber security awareness month:

(1) Check with your insurance carrier about a policy for cyber fraud.  Many times a standard malpractice policy will not cover a loss from a cyber fraud scam.  Some reasons that coverage may be declined in a standard policy are: (a) wiring funds is a ministerial task; (b) wiring funds is not the practice of law; (c) it is not an act of negligence if you (or your employee) intentionally submit the wiring instructions; and (d) the lawyer did not have proper cyber security in place (e.g. outdated firewalls).  

(2) A little paranoia is healthy.  Humans are the weakest link in cyber security.

(3) Complex passwords, changed regularly, is a necessity, not an inconvenience.

(4) If you are a title insurance agent, check with your title insurance company for guidelines.  All major companies have been dealing with cyber fraud.  All major companies have procedures in place intended to prevent common errors and training events to raise awareness.

(5) Do not EVER click on a link unless you're positive that it's safe.  Most malware and ransomware is downloaded by the user.

(6) Check back here weekly for cyber security updates, tips, and reminders.  

(7) At the bottom of this blog post is a link to the FBI website.  Check in periodically for information on current scams.  You can also follow the FBI on Twitter.