The auction and valuation sector faces increasing exposure to cyber security threats as criminals target sensitive client information, asset data and financial transactions. Understanding these risks is essential. Strengthening cyber awareness across businesses of all sizes is critical to protecting clients, operations and the sector’s reputation.
Cyber security risks are rising across the industry, with auction houses, valuation practices and independent specialists all holding information that is attractive to cyber criminals. Client details, asset descriptions, provenance documentation, sales records, valuation reports and settlement instructions can all be exploited for financial gain, identity theft or manipulation of high-value transactions. Even a minor breach can create major consequences, including lost trust, operational downtime, reputational damage and financial loss.
Phishing attempts remain one of the most pervasive threats. Criminals routinely impersonate clients, vendors or colleagues to deceive staff into revealing passwords, transferring funds or opening malicious files. Because auction settlements and valuation instructions are highly time-sensitive, criminals deliberately target busy periods to increase success rates. Ransomware attacks also pose significant risks, with offenders encrypting systems and demanding payment to restore access. For businesses reliant on digital catalogues, online bidding, or cloud-based valuation tools, such attacks can halt operations instantly.
Valuers additionally face risks associated with the interception or manipulation of reports, images and supporting documents. Compromised email accounts can enable fraudsters to alter valuation figures, redirect reports or impersonate professionals. Remote work practices, personal devices, and unsecured networks add further vulnerability, particularly for small firms without dedicated IT resources. Weak passwords, outdated software and insufficient staff training remain common entry points for attackers.
Recognising these escalating threats, the partnership between the Auctioneers and Valuers Association of Australia (AVAA) and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) to provide access to the CyberWardens training program delivers a vital protective measure. CyberWardens offers practical, accessible education tailored for small businesses, teaching staff to identify scams, improve digital hygiene, secure devices and prevent common human-error incidents.
An overview of the CyberWardens training will be provided at a free online webinar to be held on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, at 4PM AEDT, so be sure to register for this event today.
By making the CyberWardens training available to members, the AVAA is proactively strengthening industry resilience and supporting businesses to safeguard client information and uphold professional standards. In a sector built on trust and reputation, improved cyber safety is essential, and the CyberWardens program provides a clear, achievable pathway to stronger protection.
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