When Scout for SAFEMLS was first introduced as a new authentication system for MLXchange and Fusion, it immediately began analyzing login information for every user with the purpose of identifying the “signature” of each user. Using that information, Scout could detect if someone other than the authorized user was logging in under the same credentials. Scout immediately identified over 300 users who were definitely sharing their login credentials and an astounding 790 more who were strongly suspected of sharing their credentials.
The automated remediation program was begun, and members who shared or were suspected of sharing their login credentials were put through a process of changing passwords and awareness of the rules concerning sharing passwords. Five users have so far reached the last of the seven stages of remediation – loss of access to the MLS® system for anywhere from 2-4 months and being placed in the professional standards process.
Not every user who shared their password has gone that far. Through the Scout remediation program, hundreds of MLXchange and Fusion users have been made aware that sharing their login credentials is unacceptable, and have stopped the practice.
The parameters of what constitutes evidence of access code and password sharing are periodically re-defined and refined to monitor user practices for login to MLXchange and Fusion.
Remediation requires new MLS® policy
With the Scout for SAFEMLS authentication system and the shared database with the Niagara Association, a new situation arose which needed to be addressed: whether members who have been suspended from one Association’s MLS® system through Scout remediation would be able to access the MLS® system through the other association. The following policy has been adopted by both RAHB and NAR and is now in effect:
If a RAHB or Niagara member/user is disabled through remediation, the said member/user will not be permitted to join either Association for the purpose of obtaining access to the MLS® system.