Homeowners associations store sensitive data of their members, this much we know is true. But if that data ends up in the wrong hands of a hacker or malicious actor then it can spell trouble for the whole community. Social security numbers, current and former addresses, tax information, dates of birth, etc. The data that can be mined is all valuable and can be damning in terms of use from attackers.
It’s important that HOAs understand the severity of cyber security attacks on their main networks. Insurance agents should make it clearly known that having a HOA insurance plan in store can be the difference maker in terms of keeping everything safe and sound. But also taking a step in understanding the role a HOA has in cybersecurity threats against its members is even more important.
In a recent report by Symantec, the global security firm showed that 43% of all phishing attacks in 2015 were against small organizations, and this can include HOAs. Let’s see some of the main scams targeting HOAs and their members.
Email Attacks
Members of an HOA can receive an email, for instance, that invites them to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime deal. This is essentially a wolf in sheep’s clothing as this type of scam usually asks for some type of money or information from the person or organization on the receiving end. What’s more, these scams can be easily recognized as such due in part to bad grammar and spelling mistakes.
Phishing
Phishing scams feature a transactional email letting the receiver know that there’s some sort of issue with one of their accounts, such as a bank account or login account for social media. They are prompted to sign in, which allows the scammer to access the rest of their information from this point.
Viruses
These can come in many different forms, but they almost always involve someone downloading a file. From here, the computer and then the network end up being infiltrated and mined. Pop up ads have been the culprit behind these scams such as needing to update a media player, thereby imploring someone to download a new version of a file. Once it’s on a computer, it becomes a gateway for the hacker.
Botnets
Botnets are software robots that hackers use to spread malware throughout a network by emails from a device. Botnets are also leveraged as part of an even broader attack such as massive cyber attacks that can take down websites.
About Kevin Davis Insurance Services
For over 35 years, Kevin Davis Insurance Services has built an impressive reputation as a strong wholesale broker offering insurance products for the community association industry. Our President Kevin Davis and his team take pride in offering committed services to the community association market and providing them with unparalleled access to high-quality coverage, competitive premiums, superior markets, and detailed customer service. To learn more about the coverage we offer, contact us toll-free at (877) 807-8708 to speak with one of our representatives.