The Center for Realtor Technology of the National Association of Realtors has released a series of new briefing papers on information security to explain the basic concepts real estate professionals need to know to minimize financial impact, aggravation and other damage from incidents like security breaches, viruses and attacks.
The center, in conjunction with a leading firm in the information field, has developed five user-friendly guides that address major aspects of information security in the real estate industry. The papers are based on industry best practices to help practitioners address security priorities and educate key executives and directors of real estate boards about the importance of information security.
The new briefing papers are:
- Information Security – A Guide to Getting Started: The guide gives information to help begin security assessment and remediation, and to monitor procedures.
- Information Security Management Principles: This guide provides insight into security decision making, planning and budgeting.
- Information Security Key Concepts: The paper discusses key security tenets of confidentiality, integrity and availability.
- Information Security Decision Insight: This paper provides ideas on how to review, access and document an organization’s security.
- Information Security Regulatory Overview: This guide presents a primer on security legislation, regulation and expectations.
To further assist educating real estate professionals, the Center has produced three entertaining public service messages on information security. They focus on the need to protect personal information, safeguard financials, and guard against viruses. The short messages are designed to reinforce security practices.
The videos are viewable at the Center for Realtor Technology page, http://www.realtor.org/crtsecure.nsf/pages/whitepapers?OpenDocument, and are available for use by Realtor organizations.
According to NAR Vice President and Center for Realtor Technology Director Mark Lesswing, “The Realtor Secure program is designed to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity and availability of consumers’ personal information, as well as real estate business assets.” The program already has over 100 participants, including leading MLSs and industry providers, and continues to grow through the industry.
“At a time when security breaches regularly appear in the headlines, NAR, through its Realtor Secure program, is taking a positive, active approach to information security and personal information protection,” Lesswing said.
To obtain copies of the Information Security Executive Briefing Papers, go to: http://www.Realtor.org/crtsecure.nsf/pages/whitepapers?OpenDocument.
NAR’s Center for Realtor Technology was established to provide technology leadership, guidance and assistance for its members. The Center makes available informed industry insight, research and open-source applications.
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