Advocacy

Data Privacy

With states passing inconsistent laws and no uniform federal law ad- dressing data privacy, there's a patchwork of rules for companies to comply with.

Digital Closings: SECURE Notarization Act

The Securing and Enabling Commerce Using Remote and Electronic Notarization Act (SECURE Notarization Act) is bipartisan federal legisla- tion that permits immediate nationwide use of remote online notarization.

Good Funds

The use of various payment rails in real estate transactions is governed by state Good Funds laws. These laws set requirements for acceptable forms of closing funds.

Risks of Alternatives to Title Insurance

ALTA continues to take the lead in engaging with state regulators, the FHFA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and lenders about the risks of waiving title insurance requirements.

Discriminatory Covenants

ALTA opposes any form of housing discrimination and proactively works toward solutions that address illegal discriminatory covenants recorded in the public records.

Non-Title Recorded Agreements for Personal Service

ALTA supports efforts to protect consumers by prohibiting the filing of unfair real estate fee agreements in property records. ALTA advocates for state laws and regulations preventing enforcement of NTRAPS.

 Hackers Using Microsoft Teams and SharePoint to Spread Malware

December 7, 2023

If you use Microsoft Teams or SharePoint, you should be extra careful about the links and files you open. A new attack campaign has been discovered that uses these platforms to deliver malware named DarkGate, which can steal your data, spy on your activities, and even encrypt your files for ransom. 

3 Common Misconceptions About Password Security

November 21, 2023

Everyone knows that choosing a strong password is a critical step in securing the various systems and accounts we all use daily. However, you may be surprised to learn that some commonly held beliefs about passwords are more harmful than helpful. Read on to learn about three of these misconceptions to ensure that you and your business are armed with the right information to keep up with the latest password security best practices.

ALTA Insights: Real-life Uses of AI in Title

November 16, 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) and its myriad uses is the hottest trend across all industries this year. But the title insurance industry is at the brink of a significant transformation, with AI and Large Language Models (LLM) like ChatGPT providing an opportunity to bring about groundbreaking efficiencies and accuracy. Listen to this webinar recording and where these powerful tools can be used while carefully managing potential risks.

Review of NYDFS Cybersecurity Regulations Proposed Changes

November 14, 2023

The New York Department of Financial Services has issued three rounds of proposed amendments to its cybersecurity regulations. Read on for a review of the latest proposals and requirements for covered entities.

Over Half of U.S. Real Estate Professionals Experienced a Seller Impersonation Fraud Attempt in 2023

November 8, 2023

According to an October 2023 survey from CertifID, 54% of real estate professionals reported having experienced at least one seller impersonation fraud attempt within the past six months. Meanwhile, 77% of real estate professionals surveyed claimed to have seen an increase in seller impersonation fraud attempts within the same period.

ALTA Survey: Digital Closings Increase, but Barriers Slow Adoption

October 19, 2023

Fully digital or hybrid closings increased to 10% of all transactions last year compared to 7% of all deals closed in 2021, according to a study conducted by ALTA. The survey included results from 399 title professionals and businesses that operate across 46 states and Washington, D.C. Read on for details.