Beware of Scam Emails Offering WVMLS Membership Lists

Recently, we've received reports from a few members about suspicious emails claiming to offer access to our registrants or members list for purchase. These emails often come from varying senders, with the subject line "Willamette Valley Multiple Listing Service" and content promising details on "1,000+ Contacts" from WVMLS.

If you've received one of these emails, rest assured:

There has been no data breach at WVMLS, and your contact information is not for sale.

Understanding the Scam

These emails are classic examples of unsolicited offers designed to lure recipients into engaging, often leading to requests for payment, personal information, or even malware installation. The senders use generic business titles like "Business Executive" and email addresses from unfamiliar domains (e.g., something like tradedbx.live). They reference WVMLS to make the pitch seem legitimate, but it's all smoke and mirrors.

Steps to Handle These Scam Emails

Don't panic—these emails are more annoyance than threat if handled correctly. Here's a straightforward guide to dealing with them:

1. Do Not Respond or Engage: Replying confirms your email is active, which could lead to more spam or targeted attacks. Ignore the message entirely.

2. Avoid Clicking Links or Attachments: These could contain malware or phishing forms designed to steal your credentials. If the email includes any, delete it without opening.

3. Mark as Spam or Junk: This helps your email provider's filters learn and block similar messages in the future. If you're using a service like Gmail or Outlook, report it as phishing through their built-in tools.

By following these steps, you're not only protecting yourself but also helping us combat these scams collectively.

PSA: Cryptoscams Targeting Real Estate Professionals

A recent alert from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) highlights a scam targeting real estate pros, leading to significant financial losses for some.

What’s the Scam?

According to NAR’s “Window to the Law” video (View Here), this scam involves fraudsters posing as trustworthy contacts to build rapport over time. They then pitch cryptocurrency investments, often with promises of high returns or urgent opportunities. The U.S. Secret Service has flagged this as a growing issue in the real estate industry, where busy professionals can be prime targets due to their access to funds and client networks. They may reach out via email, text, or social media, urging you to invest in a crypto platform or send funds to a digital wallet. Once you transfer money, it’s gone—and so are the scammers.

Red Flags to Watch For

Here are some red flags to keep on your radar:

• Unsolicited Offers: Be wary of unexpected messages about crypto investments, especially from unfamiliar contacts or those claiming to know you.

• Pressure to Act Fast: Scammers often push for quick decisions, saying you’ll miss out on a “once-in-a-lifetime” deal.

• Suspicious Links or Platforms: Avoid clicking links or downloading apps from unverified sources, as they may install malware or lead to fake investment sites.

• Too-Good-to-Be-True Returns: Promises of guaranteed high returns with little risk are a classic scam tactic.

  
  

How to Protect Yourself

Here are practical steps to safeguard your business and finances:

1. Verify Contacts: Always double-check the identity of anyone pitching an investment. Call them using a known number or meet in person if possible.

2. Secure Your Communications: Use encrypted email or secure platforms for sensitive transactions. Never share financial details over unsecured channels.

3. Research Before Investing: If you’re considering crypto, work with reputable, regulated platforms and consult a financial advisor.

4. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect a scam, report it immediately to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov) or your local law enforcement.

   
   

Why This Matters for You

Real estate professionals are particularly vulnerable because scammers know you handle large transactions and may have access to client funds. Falling for a scam could not only cost you money but also damage your reputation and client trust. By staying informed, you’re taking a proactive step to protect your livelihood.

Stay Vigilant

Scams evolve quickly, so make it a habit to stay updated on the latest threats. Review your cybersecurity practices regularly, and consider reaching out to our team for additional resources or training on fraud prevention. Have you encountered a suspicious message or offer? Share your experience with us so we can keep your WVMLS community informed.

Too Many Vacant Property Scams

We're getting hit hard with members frantic to remove listings when it turned out the "owner of record" who signed the listing is NOT ACTUALLY THE OWNER! Here are some helpful tips from NAR.

🚩 RED FLAGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 💡

🚩 "Seller" insists on communicating electronically only, refuses to meet, sign docs, or talk in person. May be hard to understand on the phone or have email addresses or phone numbers from outside the US.

💡 Require an in-person or virtual (video) meeting to see their government issued ID, ask for detailed property tax info and directions to property.

🚩 "Seller" claims to have some emergency necessitating quick cash and wants to price the property below market.

💡 Perform a CMA and send it to the listed property owner independently using the address on the tax record. Overnight it to them, and/or call the using verified phone number listed.

🚩 "Seller" quickly accepts lowball cash offers, or no earnest money or contingencies - all toward a quick closing.

💡 Follow all your normal due diligence steps, don't succumb to pressure from the "seller" to rush things through or skip steps. If a notary is used for signing, independently verify they are legit or ask for a remote online notary of your choice.

🚩"Seller" asks that no For Sale sign be posted on the property.

Scammers STINK! We'll continue to try to keep you informed of what we're seeing, and ask our Members to do the same.