Safety Alert: Zoom Link Scam

 

Several members have contacted BRR in the last week to notify us of an increased frequency in “potential clients” requesting Zoom meetings to discuss potential transactions. The “client” refuses to discuss over the phone or is insistent upon a Zoom meeting and sending the Zoom link, themselves. The scammer will send a link disguised as a Zoom link to the agent and when clicked upon, malware is instantly downloaded to the agent’s device.

 

This is happening across the country and seems to be increasing in prevalence here, locally.

We remind members to maintain careful control over your online practices:

• • • Have a consistent verification process for all new customers/clients.
      • • NOTE: Scammers are relying on fake identity proof so additional verification of property ownership/identity need to be put in place beyond asking for a customer/client’s ID.
    • If you choose to host a virtual meeting with a new/continuing client, create the meeting link yourself and send.
    • Do NOT click any links from anyone you don’t have rapport with (even then, they could be hacked so check in before clicking whenever someone links something to you by alternate means such as a phone call).

 

Should you become victim to one of these malware scams, file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for federal action, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for consumer protection and broader tracking, then contact your local police and financial institutions if money or data was compromised.

 

These scams come in addition to vacant land scams and other virtual scams plaguing the industry and community. Additional scams and safety practices will be discussed at our upcoming Real Estate Industry Safety courses on February 26^th and March 10^th (2 CE; free for active BRR Members).

 

Be careful out there and do what you can to protect yourself and your business.