Spam Email

Quick Takeaways

  • Spam can't be prevented entirely, but REALTORS® can take steps to reduce the amount of unwanted email that comes into their in-boxes.
  • Learn how to spot the warning signs of a phishing attempt, how to protect yourself, and how to report an attack.
  • REALTORS® who use email to find and work with clients must ensure that their own electronic communications are compliant with the CAN-SPAM Act.

Unwanted, unsolicited email is a frustrating problem for almost everyone who uses the Internet. Spam email clutters inboxes, slows down web servers, and costs time and money to manage.

Spam can't be prevented entirely, but REALTORS® can take steps to reduce the amount of unwanted email that comes into their in-boxes. With a recent 30 percent increase in the volume of spam, it is important to be vigilant against potential email scams. The real estate industry is a common target of fraudsters, who may impersonate official real estate organizations and even NAR itself.

Phishing scams try to deceive people into sharing personal information such as passwords or account numbers. Learn how to spot the warning signs of a phishing attempt, how to protect yourself, and how to report an attack.

REALTORS® who use email to find and work with clients can take steps to ensure that their own electronic communications are compliant with the CAN-SPAM Act. Passed in 2003, this law sets rules for commercial email. Associations aren’t exempt from these requirements either, particularly if they offer products, classes, or events for purchase.

NAR strongly supports efforts to control fraudulent, misleading and abusive unsolicited emails and emailing practices.

See References for more information.

Advertisement