Real estate agents are victims of a new scam which is spreading quickly all over the world. Any realtor will tell you that having and keeping a current license is crucial to their career. Without it, they are not allowed to work.
The Real Estate License scam involves agents receiving what appear to be official emails from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (or a similar organization in your state/province) stating that their professional license is subject to disciplinary action.
They are given a toll-free number to call, where they are asked to provide identifying information such as a social security number and drivers' license number.
Once this information is in the hands of the scammers, identity theft is the next item on their agenda. The scam originated in Florida not too long ago.
The best way to avoid this scam is to verify the status of your license yourself. Contact the DBPR by phone or online and complete a status check. This will immediately inform you if the email is valid or not.
Never call the toll-free number listed in these emails either; they will do everything they can to get your personal identifying information. Keeping your professional license updated is very important; maintaining the veracity of your identity, even more so.
Make your family and friends aware of this scam by sharing it on social media using the buttons provided. You can also officially report the scammers to the Federal Trade Commission using the link below:
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