Minnesota MLS Changes Away From Security Tokens
Less than one year after the Northstar MLS implemented security tokens for authentication into their MLS system, they have returned to simple passwords. As it turns out, the somewhat temporary change did it’s job. According to NorthstarMLS management the tighter security revealed the following issues:
- Almost 150 licensed agents were accessing the MN MLS without paying for a membership fee.
- Multiple government agencies (including tax assessors offices) were accessing the MLS for data.
- Since the change, appraiser membership has risen dramatically, showing that these professionals were also using someone else’s MLS code to access the data.
This change is a welcome reprieve for many agents that were frustrated over the use of the tokens and additional security. As it turns out, the new password system actually has more security than it appears on the surface. The MLS staff feel like this new technology is on par with the previous tokens. By using multiple authentication methods such as IP Address tracking, key stroke monitoring and usage patterns, they expect that they will be able to spot abuse easily.
