Real Estate Scams and How to Protect Yourself

Real estate professionals are increasingly being targeted by sophisticated cybercriminals looking to steal credentials, hijack accounts and exploit the fast-paced nature of the industry. From fake buyers requesting Zoom meetings to phishing attempts aimed at gaining MLS access, today’s scams are more convincing and dangerous than ever.

Cybercriminals understand that real estate transactions rely heavily on trust, speed and digital communication. That makes agents, brokers and support staff attractive targets.

Fake Buyer Zoom Scams

A growing scam begins with what appears to be a routine inquiry from a potential buyer interested in one of your active listings. The “buyer” may reference legitimate property details pulled from MLS platforms or real estate websites to appear credible.

After a few messages, the scammer insists on scheduling a Google Meet or Zoom meeting to discuss the property. Here’s where the danger begins. The “buyer” sends a video call link that may lead to a fake login page, a malware download or a fraudulent software update prompt. In some cases, simply interacting with the link can compromise your device or steal your login credentials. Some scams are even designed to capture audio and video footage that could later be used in AI-generated deepfake impersonation attempts.

Land Scams

Another growing threat involves fraudulent property listings and fake sellers. Scammers may impersonate property owners and attempt to list homes or land they do not actually own. In some cases, criminals use publicly available property records to convince agents they are legitimate sellers. Others create fake rental or sale listings to collect deposits or personal information from victims.

These scams can damage an agent’s reputation, waste valuable time and expose consumers to financial harm.

Criminals Want Your MLS Access

MLS credentials are valuable to cybercriminals because they often provide access to sensitive listing information, client data, lockbox details and business systems. Scammers commonly attempt to steal MLS usernames and passwords through phishing emails, fake login pages or malware. Once inside an account, criminals can:

• Create listings
• Alter listing information
• Harvest client contact data
• Send fraudulent communications
• Access lockbox systems
• Launch additional scams using a trusted identity

In many cases, the attacks appear highly legitimate because scammers use real branding, copied logos and convincing messaging designed to create urgency or fear.

Red Flags to Watch For

While scams continue evolving, many share common warning signs:

• Requests to communicate only through Zoom, Google Meet, text or email
• Refusal to speak by phone or meet in person
• Links that do not lead to official domains
• Pressure to act quickly or urgently
• Prompts to download software or updates unexpectedly
• Buyers or sellers unwilling to verify identity
• Unusual requests involving wire transfers, credentials or access codes
• Poor grammar, inconsistent stories or evasive answers

If something feels off, trust your instincts and verify before proceeding.

How to Protect Yourself

• Create the meeting yourself
  Instead of clicking unknown Zoom links, create the meeting in your own Zoom account and send the invitation to the prospective client.
• Verify contacts independently
  Use trusted phone numbers, drivers license/government IDs, public records or brokerage information to confirm identities before sharing information or meeting online.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  Enable MFA on MLS accounts, email, transaction management systems and any platform containing client or business information.
• Never share MLS credentials
  MLS logins should never be shared with assistants, colleagues, clients or vendors.
• Check URLs carefully
  Scammers often use “lookalike” websites that closely resemble legitimate companies. Double-check domains before entering passwords or downloading files.
• Keep software updated
  Install updates directly from trusted software providers, not from pop-up prompts or links sent by unknown contacts.
• Slow down
  Many scams rely on creating urgency. Taking a few extra minutes to verify information can prevent major problems.

Where to Report Real Estate Scams

If you encounter suspicious activity, phishing attempts, fraudulent listings, or believe your information has been compromised, take action immediately.

• Contact law enforcement
  Report suspected fraud, identity theft or cybercrime to your local law enforcement agency.
• Contact the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office
  The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office investigates consumer fraud and scam activity and may be able to assist with reporting and next steps.
• File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
  Report online scams, phishing attempts, wire fraud and cybercrime at: https://www.ic3.gov
• Remove fraudulent listings immediately
  If a listing is determined to be fraudulent or unauthorized:
  • Remove the listing from the MLS immediately
  • Take down all advertisements and syndicated listings as quickly as possible
  • Notify affected parties and brokerage leadership
  • Preserve emails, messages and documentation for investigators

Quick action can help reduce harm to consumers and prevent additional victims.

Staying Vigilant in a Digital Industry

Real estate professionals work in an environment built on relationships and rapid communication, which is exactly what scammers try to exploit. As technology evolves, so do cyber threats. Remaining cautious online, verifying identities and following cybersecurity best practices can help protect your business, your clients and your reputation. A healthy level of skepticism may be one of the most valuable tools in real estate today.