Tennessee Realtor State Practice Exam

What is the biggest security concern for Tennessee licensees using social networking sites?

1. Identity theft

2. Increased competition

3. Criminals identifying vacant properties

4. Loss of client confidentiality

The correct answer is: Criminals identifying vacant properties

The concern regarding criminals identifying vacant properties highlights a critical issue related to the safety and security of listings and clients in the real estate industry, especially when using social networking sites. Social media platforms often provide a space for agents to advertise and showcase properties, which can inadvertently disclose sensitive information, such as the status of a home (e.g., whether it's occupied or empty) or upcoming open houses. When this information is publicly accessible, it could attract the attention of criminals looking to target unoccupied properties for burglary or vandalism. Thus, the representatives in the Tennessee real estate market must exercise caution in what they share online, ensuring that they protect their clients’ properties from becoming potential targets. Other options, while potentially concerning, do not encapsulate the specific risks associated with social media usage to the same degree. Issues like identity theft and loss of client confidentiality are serious but relate more broadly to online security practices rather than the particular risks posed by property exposure on social networking platforms. Increased competition, although a factor in the market, does not pose a direct security threat in the same way as the risk of criminal activity related to vacant homes.