Q: Is this Spam?

A: Most likely, yes.

If you receive a “lead” but you are not actively running any marketing or advertising, it is almost always spam. These messages can come through email, text, phone calls, social media, and even through Command from time to time. Spam leads often hit multiple agents at once and usually want to communicate only through WhatsApp or other non-standard channels.

One of the biggest red flags is urgency. If someone is demanding an instant reply, pushing for a same-day meeting, or insisting on a short deadline before you have even established a relationship, be cautious. Another common tactic is asking to meet via Zoom but insisting that you click their link. These links often lead to fraudulent pages or trigger a download that installs malware. For your safety, all Zoom meetings with potential clients should be initiated by the agent. This protects you and ensures the link is secure.

As a general best practice, do not click on any link you were not expecting. Our Market Center will never send you an email that only contains a link. We will always include context or a description of what the link is for. If something seems unusual or out of character for the sender, slow down and verify.

Common Red Flags to Look For

• Requests to use WhatsApp, Telegram, or other outside apps instead of normal communication

• Poor grammar, unusual phrasing, or messages that feel “copy and pasted”

• Buyers or sellers who want to send large amounts of cash or claim to buy sight unseen

• Refusing to talk on the phone or video chat unless it is through their link

• Attachments or files you were not expecting

• Emails claiming to be referrals from people you have never met

• Pressure to act immediately

How to Verify If a Lead Is Real

Not every unexpected message is spam, so here are quick steps to verify authenticity:

• Search the phone number or email online

• Look up the name in Command, social media, or Whitepages

• Ask the person where they found your contact information

• Offer to call them directly instead of clicking a link

• Ask for basic property details that real clients usually know
  If anything feels off, trust your instincts and pause.

What to Do If You Clicked a Suspicious Link

If you accidentally clicked something, do not panic. Follow these steps:

• Disconnect from WiFi

• Restart your device

• Immediately change your passwords

• Run a virus scan

• Contact KW Tech Support or MCA Leadership for guidance
  Acting quickly helps protect your information.

Safety Guidelines for All Agents

Your safety is always the priority.

• Do not meet anyone alone at a vacant property without screening them

• Ask for a copy of a driver’s license before showings when possible

• Tell someone where you are going

• If anything feels off, cancel the appointment
  You never need to force a meeting if you feel uncomfortable.

Why Spam Happens

Agents are easy targets because your contact information is public and real estate professionals tend to respond quickly. Scammers know this and try to exploit it. Spam does not reflect anything you did wrong. It is simply part of working in an industry where your information must be accessible.

Reporting Suspicious Messages

If you receive a suspicious message, email, or link, send a screenshot to Leadership so we can notify others. Reporting helps us keep the entire Market Center safe.

Bottom Line

When in doubt, assume it is spam until verified. Slow down, double check, and stay safe. Our entire Market Center is here to support you, so always reach out if something does not feel right.