deepfake cybersecurity, fbi alert

AI, Deepfakes, and Real Estate Fraud: Why Buyers, Sellers, Realtors, and Lenders Need to Pay Attention

Not long ago, consumers were taught to look for suspicious emails filled with spelling errors, unusual grammar, and questionable links. Today, those warning signs are disappearing.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has fundamentally changed the fraud landscape. Cybercriminals are now using AI-generated emails, voice cloning, deepfake technology, and sophisticated impersonation tactics to create scams that are increasingly difficult to detect.

The FBI has identified AI-enabled fraud as one of the fastest-growing cybercrime threats facing consumers and businesses. In 2025 alone, the FBI received more than 22,000 complaints involving AI-related fraud schemes, resulting in nearly $893 million in reported losses. Meanwhile, real estate fraud generated 12,368 complaints and more than $275 million in losses nationwide.

For those involved in real estate transactions, the implications are significant.

The New Face of Fraud

Real estate transactions have always been attractive targets for criminals because they involve large financial transfers, multiple parties, and strict timelines.

Artificial intelligence now allows criminals to make fraudulent communications appear legitimate.

Today’s scammers can:

• Generate professional-looking emails that mimic title companies, lenders, and realtors

• Clone voices using short audio clips found online

• Create fake identification documents

• Produce realistic property listings and seller profiles

• Impersonate trusted professionals involved in a transaction

• Create video deepfakes that appear authentic

These technologies are no longer experimental. They are being actively used in fraud schemes today.

Imagine This Scenario

You are scheduled to close on your new home in three days.

You receive a phone call from someone who sounds exactly like your real estate agent. They explain that a banking issue has occurred and provide updated wiring instructions. Minutes later, you receive an email that appears to come from the title company confirming the change.

The email contains the correct property address. The timing makes sense. The voice is familiar. Everything appears legitimate.

The problem?

Neither communication came from your agent or title company.

The voice was generated using AI. The email was created using information stolen from previous communications. The wiring instructions lead directly to a criminal’s account.

Unfortunately, this scenario is no longer hypothetical. Industry experts and federal investigators are reporting growing use of AI-generated voices, email compromise schemes, and impersonation tactics designed to redirect closing funds.

Voice Cloning Is Becoming Alarmingly Easy

One of the most concerning developments is AI voice cloning.

According to recent FBI warnings, criminals can use AI-generated voice technology to impersonate trusted individuals and organizations. With only seconds of publicly available audio, scammers can create voice recordings that sound remarkably authentic.

Think about how much audio is publicly available today:

• Social media videos

• Podcasts

• YouTube interviews

• Webinars

• Voicemails

• Public speaking engagements

A short clip may be all a criminal needs to create a convincing voice clone.

The FBI has issued multiple warnings that AI-generated voice scams are becoming increasingly common and difficult to identify.

Realtors, Lenders, and Title Companies Are Targets, Too

This is not just a threat to homebuyers and sellers.

Real estate professionals themselves are becoming targets.

Criminals are impersonating agents, title professionals, lenders, and attorneys because these individuals are trusted participants in a transaction. A convincing email or phone call appearing to come from a known professional can dramatically increase the likelihood that a victim complies with fraudulent instructions.

The result is that every participant in a transaction must remain vigilant.

Why Traditional Fraud Detection No Longer Works

Historically, many scams were easy to identify.

Poor grammar.

Misspelled words.

Strange email formatting.

Suspicious language.

Artificial intelligence is eliminating many of those indicators.

Modern AI tools can generate polished, professional communications in seconds. They can mimic writing styles, replicate branding, and create messages that appear entirely legitimate.

In many cases, consumers can no longer rely solely on appearance to determine whether a communication is authentic.

The Most Important Rule: Verify Before You Act

Fortunately, one simple habit remains highly effective.

Verify independently.

Before sending funds, changing account information, or responding to urgent requests:

• Call us at our trusted phone number at Landmark Title Agency South: 937.432.6300.

• Contact your realtor directly at their trusted phone number.

• Confirm instructions through established communication channels.

• Never rely solely on information contained in an email, text message, or voicemail.

• Be especially cautious of last-minute changes involving money.

A two-minute phone call can prevent a six-figure loss.

The Human Element Still Matters

Artificial intelligence is changing the way fraud occurs, but it has not changed the most effective defense: human verification.

At Landmark Title Agency South, we encourage buyers, sellers, realtors, and lenders to remain vigilant throughout every transaction. Technology will continue to evolve, but careful communication, verification procedures, and trusted relationships remain essential safeguards.

As AI-powered scams become more sophisticated, awareness is no longer optional. It is a critical part of protecting one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever make.

Sources

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) 2025 Annual Report, released April 2026. Reported 12,368 real estate fraud complaints, $275.1 million in losses, and more than 22,000 AI-related complaints resulting in approximately $893 million in losses.

Federal Bureau of Investigation Public Service Announcement regarding AI-generated voice impersonation and “vishing” scams, May 2025.

American Land Title Association (ALTA), “AI, Deepfakes and the New Face of Fraud in Real Estate,” June 2025.

HousingWire, “How Fraud Gets Stopped in Its Tracks by Real Estate and Title Pros,” April 2026.

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Why Title Work Matters More Than Ever

Risk, Fraud, and the Real Value Behind Every Closing

In today’s real estate environment, the closing table is more than a final step—it’s a critical checkpoint in a transaction filled with legal, financial, and cybersecurity risk.

And those risks are not hypothetical. They are measurable, costly, and increasing.

 

Fraud Is Real—and Expensive

Cybersecurity

Real estate fraud continues to be one of the most serious threats in a transaction.

According to the American Land Title Association (ALTA), fraud and forgery claims represent approximately 21% of total title insurance claim costs, with the average claim exceeding $143,000. Refinance-related fraud claims are even higher, averaging more than $200,000 per claim.

 

 

At the same time, cybercrime is accelerating. The Federal Bureau of Investigation reports that business email compromise (BEC)—a common tactic used in real estate wire fraud—contributed to billions of dollars in losses annually, with total cybercrime losses reaching $16.6 billion in 2024.

Most fraud doesn’t start at the closing table. It starts in your inbox.

 

Title Work Is Risk Prevention—Not Paperwork

Risk Management

One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that title work is administrative.

In reality, it is one of the most important forms of risk prevention in the entire transaction.

ALTA reports that the title industry helps mitigate between $600 billion and $900 billion in potential risk exposure annually, with that number exceeding $1 trillion during peak market periods.

 

Additionally, nearly 30% of title claims involve issues that are not discoverable through public records alone. This means many of the most serious risks require professional expertise to identify and resolve.

These issues can include:
Unknown heirs
Forged or improperly recorded documents
Undisclosed liens
Errors in legal descriptions

Many of the most costly problems are invisible without expert review.

 

Claims Data Reinforces the Need for Protection

Data protection

 

Title insurance is not theoretical. It is backed by real claims activity.

ALTA reports that the industry paid more than $336 million in claims in the first half of 2025 alone, demonstrating the ongoing need for protection against title defects and fraud.

 

This is what title insurance is designed to do:
Identify issues before closing
Resolve them whenever possible
Protect property owners and lenders when issues arise

 

Cybersecurity Is Now Part of Every Closing

Secure file with padlock

 

ALTA’s Cybercrime and Wire Fraud Study found that:
Over 90% of title companies report cyberattack attempts are increasing or staying the same
Nearly 60% have experienced attempted fraud, including wire fraud and business email compromise

 

These findings reinforce an important reality: Security is no longer optional. It is essential.

At Landmark Title Agency South, that means:
Verifying all wire instructions
Using secure communication protocols
Educating clients and partners on fraud prevention

 

A Strong Industry Backing Every Transaction

Alta Logo

 

The title industry remains a stable and essential part of the real estate market.


According to ALTA:

$3.9 billion in title insurance premiums were generated in Q1 2025
$4.5 billion in Q2 2025
$16.2 billion total premiums in 2024

These numbers reflect an industry built on protecting property rights and financial security. One that is supported by strong reserves and consistent claims performance.

 

Technology Is Advancing—But Expertise Still Leads

Data analysis

The title industry continues to evolve with digital tools and closing innovations.

ALTA reports that the number of title companies offering digital closings has increased significantly in recent years, reflecting growing demand for efficiency and convenience.

But while technology improves speed, it does not replace expertise.

Careful review by skilled staff, informed judgment, and accountability remain at the core of a secure closing.

 

The Landmark Difference

Landmark Team 2026

 

For buyers, sellers, lenders, and real estate professionals, the value of title work is not always visible.

 

It’s found in what doesn’t happen:
The fraud that is prevented
The issue that is caught early
The risk that is resolved before it becomes a problem

At Landmark Title Agency South, every closing is approached with that responsibility in mind. We combine experience, precision, and protection to ensure your transaction is not just completed, but completed with confidence.

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Sources
American Land Title Association (ALTA) – Claims Analysis; Market Share & Premium Reports; Cybercrime & Wire Fraud Study
Federal Bureau of Investigation – Internet Crime Report 2024 (Business Email Compromise & Cybercrime Losses)

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New FinCEN AML Real Estate Reporting Rule

New FinCEN AML Real Estate Reporting Rule Takes Effect March 1, 2026


What It Means for Certain Property Transfers and How Landmark Title Agency South Is Prepared

 Beginning March 1, 2026, a new federal Anti-Money Laundering (AML) reporting rule issued by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) will change reporting requirements for certain residential real estate transactions nationwide.

If you are a realtor, lender, buyer, seller, or investor, this is an important regulatory update to understand. The rule introduces new reporting obligations tied to specific types of property transfers. This rule applies nationwide.

At Landmark Title Agency South, we have been preparing in advance so our clients and partners can continue to close with confidence.


Why This New Rule Exists

FinCEN’s new AML real estate reporting rule is designed to increase transparency in property transfers involving legal entities and trusts that do not use traditional financing. Regulators have identified certain transaction structures as higher risk for misuse, and this rule establishes standardized federal reporting to address those risks.

While prior FinCEN Geographic Targeting Orders (GTOs) applied only to select counties and markets, this new rule creates a consistent national reporting framework.


Which Transactions May Trigger Reporting

Under the new rule, reporting may be required for certain non-financed residential real estate transfers involving:

  • Legal entities
  • Trusts
  • Structured ownership arrangements

Important clarifications:

  • “Residential real property” is defined broadly
  • Coverage may extend beyond typical 1–4 family homes
  • “Non-financed” is broader than simply “all cash”
  • Certain transaction types are exempt
  • Responsibility to report follows a defined role order among settlement participants

Not every transaction will be reportable — but some will require additional documentation and federal filing.


Reporting Deadlines and Compliance Requirements

When reporting is required, the rule establishes:

  • Specific post-closing filing deadlines
  • Required identity and transaction data collection
  • Federal record-retention standards
  • Defined responsibility based on transaction roles
  • Potential civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance

Accuracy, timing, and documentation controls are essential under the new framework.


What This Means for Realtors, Lenders, Buyers & Sellers

For most traditionally financed residential transactions, the closing process will feel very familiar.

However, for transactions that fall within the reporting scope, parties may be asked to provide additional information or verification details. These steps are designed to meet federal compliance requirements — not to delay closings — and will be handled through structured procedures.

Clear communication and early identification will be key to avoiding surprises.


How Landmark Title Agency South Is Handling the Change

Landmark Title Agency South has implemented updated compliance procedures, workflow checkpoints, and staff training to support the new FinCEN reporting requirements.

When applicable, our team will:

  • Identify reportable transactions early in the process
  • Guide parties through required information collection
  • Coordinate secure documentation handling
  • Manage reporting timelines
  • Maintain required compliance records
  • Communicate clearly with all transaction partners

Our objective is to integrate compliance into the closing process — not disrupt it.


A Trusted Closing Partner Matters More Than Ever

Regulatory requirements in real estate continue to evolve. Having an experienced, proactive title partner helps ensure transactions remain secure, compliant, and on schedule.

Landmark Title Agency South remains committed to:

  • Transaction security
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Clear communication
  • Efficient closings
  • Local expert support


Questions About the New FinCEN Rule?

If you have questions about how the March 1, 2026, FinCEN AML reporting rule may affect an upcoming transaction, our team is here to help.


Contact Landmark Title Agency South — the Landmark Team is ready.

937.432.6300 | info@landmarktitlesouth.com

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From Contract to the Closing Table: The Landmark Team’s Proven Title Order Process

At Landmark Title Agency South, we know that every real estate transaction is unique. Whether it’s your first closing or your fiftieth, each file comes with its own details, timelines, and personalities. That’s why our process is built around collaboration, communication, and consistency—ensuring every step is handled with care so you can focus on your clients.

Here’s what happens behind the scenes from contract to keys:

Step 1: Opening the Title Order

Under contract? Congratulations!

The first step is simple—send us:

  • your signed purchase contract
  • any counteroffers or addenda
  • commission instructions
  • contact details for both agents, brokerages, and clients.

Speed Pro Tip: Include anything that might help us plan ahead—like if a Power of Attorney will be used, the client is out of state, or the property is in a trust.

Once we receive the order, we’ll open the file in our system and send you an introduction to your dedicated escrow team—the same team you’ll work with for all your transactions with us for consistency and efficiency.

Buyers and sellers also get a welcome email with secure registration instructions, wiring details, and pre-closing forms to complete. These forms help us confirm identities, clear any potential title issues, and start ordering necessary payoffs.

Step 2: Title Search & Examination

We request the title search from the county as soon as the order is opened.

On average, searches take about seven business days, depending on the county. This search is the foundation for everything that comes next—it reveals ownership history, liens, mortgages, and any other items that might need to be addressed before closing.

Step 3: Title Commitment

Once the search is complete, your escrow coordinator reviews the title commitment and shares it with you.

We’ll outline exactly what’s in the report and what will need to be cleared—such as outstanding mortgages or liens—before we can move forward.

Step 4: Clearing & Curative Work

When all requirements are known, our escrow officer begins clearing title and preparing numbers for the settlement statement.

If it’s a cash deal, we’ll send both parties the final statement for approval right away.

If a lender is involved, we’ll work with them to finalize figures and then circulate the approved settlement statement to all parties before scheduling the closing.

Step 5: Closing Day

Whether you prefer the comfort of our office or a remote/mobile closing, we meet you where you are—literally.

On closing day, signatures are collected, funds are verified, and documents are returned to our office. Then it’s on to post-closing.

Step 6: Post-Closing Processing

Our post-closing team double-checks every document, confirms all funds, and issues final ALTA statements to the agents.

Once we’re certain everything is in order, we disburse funds according to your original commission instructions.

Step 7: Title Policy Issued

Finally, we issue the official title policy and send confirmation to all parties. At this point, the file is complete—and you’ve successfully closed another transaction with Landmark Title Agency South.

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From start to finish, our goal is simple: Make the process smooth, transparent, and stress-free—for agents, buyers, and sellers alike.

When you work with the Landmark Team at Landmark Title Agency South, you’re not just getting a title company—you’re getting a team committed to protecting your transaction and your peace of mind.

Experience the Landmark Team’s expert and seamless closing process. Schedule your closing by calling us at 937.432.6300.

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Protecting Your Closing: How Landmark Title Prevents Wire Fraud in Ohio Real Estate

“I didn’t think it could happen to us.”

Sad homebuyers

During a real estate transaction, 1 in 4 consumers and businesses are targeted for wire fraud.
Prepare and don’t fall for it yourself.
– The Landmark Team and CertifID

Wire fraud is a growing threat in real estate, with criminals targeting buyers, sellers, and agents by intercepting emails and spoofing account details. These schemes often result in stolen funds and delayed or canceled closings. At Landmark Title Agency South, we take proactive steps to prevent wire fraud, including our trusted partnership with CertifID—a leading wire fraud protection platform.

Through our collaboration with CertifID, we:

  • Secure communication portals
  • Verify identity before funds are transferred
  • Utilize encrypted email systems
  • Offer guaranteed protection for wire transfers
  • Educate clients on safe communication practices

We never change wiring instructions via email, and we strongly advise clients to verify all details by phone using known numbers. CertifID adds another layer of security, providing peace of mind with every transaction.

For more information, please email us at info@landmarktitlesouth.com or call 937.432.6300.

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Landmark Team’s CEO, Chris Cartwright, speaks on Title Fraud with Sandy Collins, iHeartCinci Podcast

Landmark Team’s CEO, Chris Cartwright, speaks on Title Fraud, an increasingly problematic problem in America. Chris was invited to discuss this pressing topic with Sandy Collins, host of iHeartCinci Podcast, after Sandy received an FBI alert on the topic.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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The Role of Title Insurance in Real Estate Transactions

The Role of Title Insurance in Real Estate Transactions

In the realm of real estate transactions, the significance of title insurance cannot be overstated. Serving as a critical safeguard against unforeseen ownership disputes and title defects, title insurance plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth transfer of property ownership. In our newsletter, “The Role of Title Insurance in Real Estate Transactions: Best Practices and Case Studies,” we explore the fundamental importance of title insurance, highlight best practices for its implementation, and examine real-world case studies that underscore its value in protecting stakeholders.

Understanding the Importance of Title Insurance

Title insurance serves as a shield, protecting property owners, lenders, and other stakeholders from potential risks associated with title defects, liens, encumbrances, and fraud. Unlike other forms of insurance that protect against future events, title insurance provides coverage for past occurrences that may jeopardize property ownership rights.

A comprehensive title search and examination are conducted during the underwriting process to identify any issues that may affect the property’s title. This diligent review helps to mitigate risks and ensure that the title is free and clear, providing peace of mind to all parties involved in the transaction.

Best Practices for Implementing Title Insurance

To maximize the efficacy of title insurance in real estate transactions, industry professionals should adhere to a set of best practices:

1. Thorough Due Diligence: Conduct comprehensive title searches and examinations to identify any existing or potential title defects, liens, or encumbrances.

2. Clear Communication: Maintain open and transparent communication with clients, explaining the importance of title insurance and addressing any concerns or questions they may have.

3. Customized Coverage: Tailor title insurance policies to meet the specific needs and circumstances of each transaction, considering factors such as property type, location, and intended use.

4. Risk Management Strategies: Implement proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential title-related risks, such as obtaining endorsements or conducting additional searches for specific issues.

5. Continual Education: Stay updated on industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging risks through ongoing education and professional development.

Case Studies Illustrating the Value of Title Insurance

Real-world examples offer compelling evidence of the critical role that title insurance plays in safeguarding property rights and mitigating financial risks. Consider the following case studies:

1. The Hidden Lien: In a residential real estate transaction, the title search revealed an undisclosed mechanic’s lien against the property. Thanks to the comprehensive title insurance policy obtained by the buyer, the title company resolved the lien issue, protecting the buyer’s investment and preventing costly legal battles.

2. Boundary Dispute Resolution: A commercial property purchase was nearly derailed when a neighboring landowner claimed ownership of a portion of the property’s land. The title insurance policy provided coverage for the legal costs associated with resolving the boundary dispute, allowing the transaction to proceed smoothly.

3. Fraudulent Title Transfer: In a case of identity theft, an individual fraudulently transferred ownership of a property and attempted to sell it to an unsuspecting buyer. The title insurance company intervened, uncovering the fraudulent activity and restoring the rightful ownership to the original owner, thus preventing financial loss and legal complications.

These case studies underscore the invaluable protection afforded by title insurance in real estate transactions, highlighting its role in mitigating risks and preserving property rights.

Conclusion

As demonstrated, title insurance is a cornerstone of real estate transactions, providing essential protection against a myriad of potential risks. By adhering to best practices and leveraging the insights gleaned from real-world case studies, industry professionals can ensure the effective implementation of title insurance, safeguarding the interests of all parties involved in the transaction. Our newsletter serves as a valuable resource for navigating the complexities of title insurance and maximizing its benefits in real estate transactions.

Article published by Real University

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SEXENNIAL REAPPRAISAL AND TRIENNIAL UPDATES FOR OHIO’S 88 COUNTIES | 2023-2028

SEXENNIAL REAPPRAISAL AND TRIENNIAL UPDATES FOR OHIO’S 88 COUNTIES
2023-2028

The latest sexennial reappraisal and triennial real estate tax update periods have been released for Ohio’s 88 counties from years 2023 through 2028.

2023 Reappraisal Counties

Auglaize
Clinton
Darke
Defiance
Delaware
Franklin
Gallia
Geauga
Hamilton
Hardin
Harrison
Henry
Jackson
Licking
Mahoning
Mercer
Morrow
Perry
Pickaway
Pike
Preble
Putnam
Richland
Seneca
Shelby
Trumbull
Vanwert
Wood

2024 Reappraisal Counties

Belmont
Brown
Crawford
Cuyahoga
Erie
Fayette
Highland
Huron
Jefferson
Lake
Lorain
Lucas
Morgan
Muskingum
Ottawa
Portage
Stark
Warren
Williams

2025 Reappraisal Counties

Carroll
Champaign
Clark
Fairfield
Logan
Marion
Medina
Miami
Ross
Union
Wyandot

2026 Reappraisal Counties

Ashland
Ashtabula
Athens
Butler
Clermont
Fulton
Greene
Knox
Madison
Montgomery
Noble
Summit
Wayne

2027 Reappraisal Counties

Allen
Coshocton
Guernsey
Sandusky
Vinton

2028 Reappraisal Counties

Adams
Columbiana
Hancock
Hocking
Holmes
Lawrence
Meigs
Monroe
Paulding
Scioto
Tuscarawas
Washington

2023 Update Counties

Ashland
Ashtabula
Athens
Butler
Clermont
Fulton
Greene
Knox
Madison
Montgomery
Noble
Summit
Wayne

2024 Update Counties

Allen
Coshocton
Guernsey
Sandusky
Vinton

2025 Update Counties

Adams
Columbiana
Hancock
Hocking
Holmes
Lawrence
Meigs
Monroe
Paulding
Scioto
Tuscarawas
Washington

2026 Update Counties

Auglaize
Clinton
Darke
Defiance
Delaware
Franklin
Gallia
Geauga
Hamilton
Hardin
Harrison
Henry
Jackson
Licking
Mahoning
Mercer
Morrow
Perry
Pickaway
Pike
Preble
Putnam
Richland
Seneca
Shelby
Trumbull
Vanwert
Wood

2027 Update Counties

Belmont
Brown
Crawford
Cuyahoga
Erie
Fayette
Highland
Huron
Jefferson
Lake
Lorain
Lucas
Morgan
Muskingum
Ottawa
Portage
Stark
Warren
Williams

2028 Update Counties

Carroll
Champaign
Clark
Fairfield
Logan
Marjon
Medina
Miami
Ross
Union
Wyandot

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Fraud Protection

Fraud protection is essential in the title industry. Fraudulent wiring instructions have caused dramatic financial losses for title agents, realtors, homeownership, and homebuyers.

We want to keep you safe.

What we know:

    • Changes to wire instructions are not normal
    • Lender payoffs are being manipulated
    • Large losses are occurring in the industry
    • Payoff instructions are not verified

Safety Measures:

    • Question every single change to wire instructions, change requests are not normal and probably fraudulent
    • Do not reply directly to emails requesting the movement of money
    • Instead, use the “forward” option and type in the correct email address or select it from your email address book
    • Validate new payment instructions received via email—even if it is internal
    • Always verify the authenticity of each wire transfer request
    • Call, using a number you have previously called—not one from the current wire transfer request—to verify verbally
    • Verify payment instructions with any new vendor
    • Verify changes to payment instructions for an existing vendor
    • Verify pay-off account numbers before wiring funds

How can you avoid fraud?

  • Establish a verification protocol
  • Enforce the protocol with all employees
  • Re-review on a regular basis
  • Implement multi-factor authentication
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