Blog Layout
Online Safety Tips for REALTORS®
Louisiana Realtors • October 23, 2018
Technology is changing the way we do just about everything in our lives, especially from a business perspective. The convenience of the connectivity that the internet provides makes our professional performance more efficient, agile, and thorough; but it’s not without its risks. With more and more prospecting, organization, and transactional operations moving in a digital direction, it is very important to be aware of online dangers, and how to avoid them. Here are a few tips to keep you and your clients safe.
Protect Your Wireless Router
One of the simplest and most common points of entry to your data is your office’s wireless router. Be sure to change the router’s password from the factory’s default one. This will help to prevent someone from gaining access to your network, installing malicious software, tracking your key strokes, and stealing sensitive information.
Be Aware of Phishing Attempts
Not all digital attacks occur from behind the scenes of a firewall. Many times information can be accessed, or access can be granted without a single line of code. Phishing is the practice of sending what appears to be a legitimate email from a reputable company (like a bank), asking for information like passwords, account numbers, etc. When you respond to these requests or click on any attached links, you are providing all of the information and access needed to compromise your data and/or your network. If you suspect that an email may not be a legitimate inquiry, contact the company’s main support line before you respond.
Mobile Devices Are Also Susceptible
More work is being done on mobile devices than ever before. The capabilities of phones and tablets have made it easier to work while on the go. However, the information that is shared, sent, and stored on these devices can also be compromised without the proper precautions. Be sure to encrypt all of your inbound and outbound data. This prevents anyone but the intended recipient from being able to use the information. This can be easily be done on iPhone and Android devices. It’s also a good idea to avoid using unsecured wireless networks while you are out and about.
Provide Your Input on Mandatory LREC Forms
As a Louisiana REALTOR® you have the power to shape communities and ensure fair housing opportunities for all. Fair housing advocacy is not just about compliance with the law; it’s about fostering inclusive, diverse, and thriving neighborhoods.
As previewed last week, NAR is pleased to share the latest consumer guide focused on alternative listing options. This guide covers the role that MLSs play in marketing a home, office exclusive and delayed marketing exempt listing options, and the disclosure required when filing an exempt listing. For additional information and helpful resources on the new Multiple Listing Options for Sellers policy, please check out facts.realtor . As a reminder, all guides in this series are available for download—in both English and Spanish—on facts.realtor . Please allow a few days for the Spanish version of the latest resource to be translated and uploaded. For ease of reference, below is a list of the most recent guides: NEW: Alternative Listing Options Navigating Multiple Offers Homeowners Associations Marketing Your Home Seller Disclosures Thank you for continuing to engage with the “Consumer Guide” series and for sharing the resources with prospective clients to ensure they have the information they need to find success in their homebuying or selling journey. Remember that these guides are for informational purposes only and are not meant to enact or change any existing NAR policy. Be on the lookout for next week’s guide on Wednesday, which will cover deeds and titles.
821 Main StreetBaton Rouge, LA 70802
821 Main Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802