What World Data Privacy Day Means for Property Buyers

Each year on January 28, World Data Privacy Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of protecting personal information in an increasingly digital world. While data privacy is often associated with passwords, apps and online security, it is just as critical when it comes to property transactions.

Buying or selling property involves large sums of money, sensitive personal information and time-critical decisions. That combination has made real estate one of the fastest-growing targets for sophisticated scams across Australia.

Property scams are escalating at an alarming rate

Recent data highlights just how serious the issue has become.

According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, losses from property- related scams increased from $13 million in 2021 to $43.2 million in 2024. This represents more than a threefold increase in just a few years.

Research from PEXA further revealed that 97 per cent of Australians who had purchased property in the past 12 months, or planned to buy within the next year, were unable to identify scam warning signs in property transaction scenarios.

These figures show that even informed and experienced buyers are vulnerable.

Why property transactions are a prime target

Property scams are not accidental. Criminals deliberately target real estate because of several key factors.

Transactions often involve large sums of money. Timelines are tight, creating urgency and pressure to act quickly. Communication is commonly handled via email, which can be intercepted or convincingly imitated. Buyers and sellers also tend to trust that professionals involved in the process are legitimate.

Scammers exploit this trust by impersonating real estate agents, conveyancers, solicitors and other parties involved in the transaction. With advances in technology and AI, fraudulent emails and documents are now extremely difficult to distinguish from genuine communications.

Common property scam tactics to watch for

While scams continue to evolve, there are patterns that appear frequently in property fraud cases.

Buyers or sellers may receive emails advising that bank account details have changed shortly before settlement. Messages may sound urgent and stress that failure to act immediately could delay settlement or cause financial consequences. Email addresses may look correct at a glance but contain very subtle differences. Requests may be made to move conversations or payments outside the usual agreed process.

These tactics are designed to create pressure and reduce the likelihood that someone will stop and verify the information.

How to protect yourself and your data

World Data Privacy Day is a timely reminder that small, careful actions can prevent major financial loss.

Always verify payment instructions by speaking directly with your agent, solicitor or conveyancer using a trusted phone number. Never rely on email alone to confirm bank details. Take the time to carefully review email addresses and question anything that seems unusual or rushed. Ensure your email accounts are protected with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication. If something feels wrong, pause and check before transferring any funds.

In property, slowing down for a moment can make all the difference.

A smarter approach to property security

At Property Club, protecting our members goes beyond finding the right property. It includes education, guidance and awareness so you can make confident decisions at every stage of the journey.

If you are buying, selling or investing and would like advice on protecting your information and finances, our team is here to help.

Contact Property Club at enquiries@propertyclub.com.au

This World Data Privacy Day, remember that safeguarding your data also means safeguarding your property future.