A Perspective Analysis of Ethical Issues and Data Security Challenges in Real Estate Agency Practice in Osun state, Nigeria

As a critical component of the national economies, the need for an efficient and effective Thereal estate sector in Nigeria is increasingly facing ethical concerns and data security challenges,particularly in urban centers like Osogbo and Ile-Ife. This study provides a critical perspectiveon the ethical dilemmas and data security risks encountered by real estate practitioners in thesecities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research explores the prevalence of unethicalpractices such as misrepresentation, fraud, and conflict of interest, alongside emerging concernsabout data privacy and cybersecurity threats in property transactions. Primary data werecollected through structured interviews and surveys administered to real estate managers, localagents, clients, and regulatory bodies. Secondary data from previous literatures were alsoanalyzed to evaluate existing opinions. Findings indicate that while regulatory mechanisms exist,enforcement is weak, leading to recurrent ethical breaches. Additionally, inadequate digitalliteracy and infrastructures and the absence of robust data protection policies exposes clients torisks such as identity theft and financial fraud. The study recommends the implementation ofstricter regulatory compliance, enhanced professional ethics training, and the adoption of securedigital platforms for real estate transactions. Strengthening institutional oversight andawareness on ethical conduct and data security will be crucial in fostering transparency andtrust in the sector.