Estate agents ‘putting client details at risk’

Estate agents could be putting their clients’ personal details at risk by taking information such as addresses, bank account or passport details over email.

New research from secure communications specialists Beyond Encryption has found 19% of consumers have been asked to share personal information over email by estate agents.

Similarly, 26% of customers of health professionals and 21% using financial advisers said they have also shared personal information over email, dropping to 15% and 16% respectively for accountancy and legal clients.

This is a concerning statistic given cybercrime is on the rise and the Information Commissioner’s Office guidelines require professional services to discourage practices that put their client’s data at risk and email is not a secure communications channel.

While almost half of Brits shared their home addresses over email, 30% had shared bank account details and more than a quarter shared their passport details, driving licence and national insurance numbers, according to the research.

Paul Holland, chief executive at Beyond Encryption, said: “Businesses find themselves under unique pressures, with cyber threats increasing in complexity and number each year and consumers demanding instant access to services and a seamless user experience.

“However, this research has revealed clear vulnerabilities and threats posed to businesses across the UK. It’s vital that businesses put the tools and knowledge in place to protect client data whilst providing secure and efficient customer communications.”