realtor® safety technology that can gather this data into an online profile to be used for criminal purposes. Busy Realtors® are rarely tied to an office desk, and tapping into wireless networks while out in the field is part of the mobile toolkit. Be aware that not all wireless networks are secure. Take care not to connect to unsecure networks as you may be revealing personal information and data that can be used to access apps in your phone without your knowledge. Speaking of apps, beware of downloading apps that are data-mining ventures in disguise. Always check the developers’ reviews to see what other users have reported. Understand that all apps request access to information about you and your device, so be sure to take the extra steps needed to read their privacy policies and delete apps that do not ensure your information is not sold to third parties. Finally, while so many agents are working from home – and sometimes competing with a partner or children who are online at the same time – it’s important to ensure that the home network is as secure as possible. Check with your local internet and wireless provider to ensure both your cell phone and computers are up to date with the best cyber security maintenance. The internet is a powerful tool, but there are also risks. Take advantage of available resources to combat cyber security threats and create a safer online environment for you, your family and your clients.
Safety Tips for Realtors
Cyber-Security Resources National Association of Realtors® Cyber Security Checklist: NAR’s checklist offers some best practices to help agents curb the risk of cybercrime. Better Business Bureau: The BBB has many vetted resources and recommendations for individuals, businesses, and cyber-crime victims. National Cyber Security Alliance: The NCSA has created public/private partnerships to educate and empower users at home, work and school with the information they need to keep sensitive information safe and secure online and encourage a culture of cyber security. Their CyberSecure My Business™ is a national program helping small and medium sized businesses incorporate smart cyber practices to be safer and more secure online. StopThinkConnect.org: STOP. THINK. CONNECT.™ is the global online safety awareness campaign to help all digital citizens stay safer and more secure online, with the goal to help people understand not only the risks that come with using the internet, but also the importance of practicing safe online behavior.
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Source: National Association of Realtors ®
KNOWLEDGE. Awareness. Empowerment. These are the core components of Realtor® Safety. Here are just a few safety tips to keep you and your clients safe.
TIP #1 – KEEP IT LIGHT Show properties before dark. If you
middle name or initial. Use your office address—or list no address at all. Giving out too much of the wrong information can make you a target.
are going to be working after hours, advise your associate or first-line supervisor of your schedule. If you must show a property after dark, turn on all lights as you go through, and don’t lower any shades or draw curtains or blinds.
TIP #4 – TOUCH BASE Always let someone know where you
TIP #2 – CHECKING-IN When you have a new client, ask them to stop by your office and complete a Prospect Identification Form (Find a copy online at nar.realtor/safety). Also, photocopy their driver’s license and retain this information at your office. Be certain to properly discard this personal information when you no longer need it.
TIP #3 – DON’T BE TOO PUBLIC Limit the amount of personal information you share. Consider advertising without using your photograph, home phone number and/or home address in the newspaper or on business cards. Don’t use your full name with http://nvar.com/2005 RE+VIEW
are going and when you will be back; leave the name and phone number of the client you are meeting and schedule a time for your office to call you to check in.
TIP #5 – OPEN HOUSE SAFETY Open house: it ain’t over till it’s over. Don’t assume that everyone has left the premises at the end of an open house. Check all of the rooms and the backyard prior to locking the doors. Be prepared to defend yourself, if necessary. Listen to NVAR’s RealLife Podcast with Michelle Sagatov on this topic at NVAR.com/reallife. To view more tips and safety resources, visit nar.realtor/safety.
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