Inman

Real estate organizations crack down on data security

More of the nation’s multiple listing services have become serious about data protection and have implemented security systems offered through Secure Computing and Clareity Security, the companies said today.

Several MLSs recently have decided to use Clareity’s SafeMLS product, the company said, including the Regional MLS of Florida; SoCalMLS in Southern California; Staten Island Board of Realtors in New York; Southwest Multiple Listing Service in Albuquerque, N.M.; Consolidated Multiple Listing Service of Columbia, S.C.; Capital Area Association of Realtors in Springfield, Ill.; Hudson County MLS in New Jersey; and Shaiwaseee Regional Board of Realtors in Owosso, Mich.

SafeMLS provides MLS organizations assurance that only legitimate subscribers can access the MLS system by requiring them to use a one-time-only password generated by a security token. The product was developed jointly by Clareity Security and Secure Computing, using Secure Computing’s SafeWord PremierAccess, an authentication tool that controls remote access to a wide range of network applications and resources.

SafeMLS customers have realized increases of new subscribers ranging between 10 percent and 20 percent because users can no longer share passwords, according to Clareity.

Clareity works with each MLS to develop a customized integration and deployment plan based on the MLS’s individual needs. The company also provides a full spectrum of integration, deployment and product support services, including security education and policy creation for MLS and brokerage staff. 

SafeMLS identifies users, controls access to critical business applications, and integrates with the existing MLS infrastructure. Controlling access to the MLS database has become increasingly important because MLS databases can include personal information about clients and prospects. SafeMLS protects personally identifying information about homeowners, as well as very sensitive information such as, “Owners on vacation for the next two weeks.”

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