Vacant Land Sales Scam – Fake Seller can begin with a cold email about listing land.
FOREWARN can help detect the fake seller. Ditto HOA/Tax/Neighborhood info.
Wire Fraud – Fake Lawyer – can begin with an email hack of anyone in the transaction.
Updated software can help prevent. Two step authentication log in can help prevent.
CONTACT BANKS and FBI IMMEDIATELY. Time is of the essence. Test wire.
Listing Scrape into Fake Rental – Fake Landlord – crooks can scrape online listing information.
Google Alerts set for all listing addresses can help prevent. NOT FOR RENT signs on property can help prevent.
Assault/Battery/Robbert – Fake Consumer’s goal is to lure or intercept a REALTOR® at an isolated location for criminal acts. FOREWARN can help detect the fake consumer. Deterrence is a risk management strategy (e.g., meet at brokerage, introductions, recording vehicle/tag/ID information, known check in procedures). Panic button/911 devices. Escape plan. Evasion plan. Assistance and safety plan.
Please report to law enforcement (e.g., FBI, Secret Service, SLED, local law enforcement).
Please communicate (e.g., SCR, LLR, social, brokerage).
Posted by: Byron King on 03/22/23 (This information is only accurate as of 03/22/23. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 03/22/23 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org)
This information is not legal advice. This information is intended only to provide general information and may not be relied upon as specific legal guidance. Legal counsel should always be consulted before acting in reliance on this information.