Increased awareness over identity fraud and scams has been highlighted by NSW Minister for Fair Trading Matthew Mason-Cox after reports of property fraud in the ACT.
Real Estate Institute of New South Wales President Malcolm Gunning said the Institute supports the guidelines and was working with Real Estate professionals to heighten awareness.
“We take matters of fraud and fraud prevention very seriously,” Mr Gunning said.
“At our recent roadshow events across NSW we spoke to over 1000 members about possible identity fraud and the key signs to watch for, including requests for contact details to be changed.”
NSW Fair Trading introduced the Real Estate Fraud Prevention Guidelines in 2012 to assist agents with identifying their vendor after properties were sold in Western Australia without the knowledge of the property owners. Included in the Guidelines is a Proof of Identity Checklist for Vendors.
“We have instructed our members to be vigilant and take the guidelines seriously.
“We need co-operation from the public who should be aware that Real Estate professionals will ask them for identification, they should not be offended if an agent seeks extra documentation.
“The NSW Police or NSW Fair Trading should be contacted if identity fraud is suspected,” Mr Gunning said.
For further information or to speak with REINSW President Malcolm Gunning please contact Helen Hull at [email protected] or on 0419 642 961.