Don’t fall for the phishing trap

Real estate professionals are a prime target for phishing scams. You're constantly emailing, texting, and taking calls with clients, and the large financial transactions involved make you a valuable target. One wrong click, and you could expose sensitive client data or compromise a transaction.

The good news? A little bit of awareness goes a long way. Here’s what to look out for:

Phishing emails

This is the classic scam. A hacker sends an email that looks legitimate, but it's really a trap. They'll try to get you to click a link, download an attachment, give up your login credentials, or provide sensitive information.

• Check the sender's address. Hackers often use email addresses that look very similar to legitimate ones. For example, support@mls-secure.com instead of the real support@mls.com. Look closely.
• Don't click unexpected links or attachments. If an email seems off, don't click anything. Hover your mouse over a link before you click to see where it really leads. If it looks suspicious, delete the email.
• Watch for urgent language. Scammers try to create a sense of urgency to make you act without thinking. Phrases like "act now or lose access!" or "urgent: wiring instructions change" are huge red flags.

Phishing texts (Smishing)

Phishing isn't just for email. Scammers use text messages, too. They might send a text pretending to be a bank, a courier service, or even your MLS provider, claiming there's a problem with your account.

• Ignore links from unknown numbers. Never click a link from a number you don't recognize, especially if it's about account issues, delivery problems, or winning a prize.
• Verify directly. If a text claims to be from your bank or broker, don't trust it. Call the official number you have on file instead of replying to the text.

Voice phishing (Vishing)

This scam happens over the phone. A scammer will call you and impersonate a client, a title company representative, or your broker. They often create a sense of urgency or threat to get you to act quickly.

• Beware of urgent calls. If a caller is pressuring you for personal or financial information, be on high alert.
• Never share sensitive information over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain of who you are talking to.
• Just hang up and call back. If a call feels off, simply hang up and call the person or company back using a verified number you have saved.

The golden rule

Whether it's an email, a text, or a phone call, remember this simple rule: If it feels rushed, threatening, or too good to be true—stop and verify before you act. A moment of caution can save you from a major security nightmare.