More SAFEMLS Questions & Answers
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How will I log on to NorthstarMLS using the SAFEMLS secure system?
You will enter three pieces of information: Your Agent ID, a four-digit PIN number that you create (as you do for an ATM card), and a one-time single access password generated by your SAFEMLS token. Initially, the SAFEMLS system will be launched in parallel with our current log-in system. This will allow you to fall back on the old system for a period until you get accustomed to the new system.
What is the SAFEMLS token and what are my options?
Hardware token, or key-fob
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Description: The original authenticator, the Clareity Security blue token, is cost-effective, convenient and easy to use. The slim line device measures about 1" X 2" and easily attaches to a key chain for quick access. Just press the small gray button to obtain a password! |
TEXT-pass®
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Description: With TEXT-pass, one-time use passwords are delivered to the end-user’s mobile phone as an SMS text message. There is no special device, download or software required to use TEXT-pass. Once a user is enrolled in TEXT-pass, they can send a text message to Clareity Security and within seconds, a single user password will be delivered. Any cellular phone or smartphone that supports SMS messaging is TEXT-pass ready. |
GE Security's DisplayKEY
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Description: If you carry a DisplayKEY, you can choose to receive your passwords right on your existing DisplayKEY device, consolidating the number of total devices you need. It’s simple. You “synch” your key in the cradle, and you’ll automatically receive a SAFEMLS update. The next time you scroll through the DisplayKEY menu, you will notice a new menu item “MLS Token.” Select this option, and the DisplayKEY will show your one-time password. |
GE Security's eKEY |
Description: For eKEY users, receive your password right on your eKEY supported Smartphone or other approved SUPRA device. Once your eKEY has been updated with new software, you will notice a new menu option in the Supra menu, "SAFEMLS". Click the SAFEMLS menu option, and your screen will display your one-time MLS password. Your phone is now an all-in-one PDA, electronic lockbox key, and Strong Authentication token! |
Can I have more than one type of token?
No, you must choose just one token type and use that exclusively.
What if I decide later on that I want to switch to a different token type from the one I originally chose?
You will have the option to have your original choice deactivated so that you can switch to one of the others. However, if your original choice was Text-Pass, eKEY or DisplayKEY, your up front $54.95 fee is not refundable.
I heard the NorthstarMLS tokens had high failure rates in other markets and that it’s hard to tell whether a character in the password is a letter or number.
The old models of the token did have problems with higher failure rates than acceptable. Those issues were all corrected with the newer “Alpine” model that has been in use since the summer with extremely low failure rates. We will be distributing this newest version of the token. Also, they no longer use alpha characters at all. Your SAFEMLS password will always be numbers only.
Will I need to use my SAFEMLS token to access Home Base and Matrix Mobile?
Yes. However, we plan to implement a “Single Sign-On” technology in early 2009. When you log into any one of our systems that use the SAFEMLS authentication system, you will be automatically logged in to all of them. For example, if you log on to Home Base, then open Matrix (within a four hour time period), you will go straight to the Matrix Home screen without having to log in again.
How does this affect office staff ability to support more than one agent?
Every person who accesses NorthstarMLS will be required to do so through a SAFEMLS token, including both licensed and unlicensed office assistants. The Realtor Associations are in the process of working with the brokers to identify all the office assistants who will need a token. If you support several agents, you will be able to log on with your own token and have access to the accounts of all the agents you support, so you can still easily do their listing maintenance. If an assistant leaves the company, the broker must retrieve the assistant’s token which is deactivated and then re-registered for the new assistant. If the outgoing assistant’s token cannot be retrieved, a new one must be purchased for the replacement staff.
I work on a team of agents. How does SAFEMLS affect our ability to continue working as a team?
Administration of teams will work much the same as it does currently. The team leader’s agent ID will function as the team ID. Each team member’s SAFEMLS token will be administratively assigned as a secondary user under the Team Leader’s ID (this is in addition to the ability to log in as him/herself). To log in as the team, each member assigned to the team will log in using the Team Leader’s ID, the team member’s own PIN, and the team member’s own SAFEMLS token.
What if I simply forget my token at home?
During the parallel launch period (when both the old and SAFEMLS login methods are available), you would simply log on under the old method of your agent ID and regular MLS password. We encourage you to use the parallel launch time to get used to always carrying your token with you. If you forget your token after we have made the cutover to SAFEMLS exclusively, you would be required to either go home and get your token or go online to report it lost. In that case, you would immediately be emailed a temporary password good for up to seven days, and your token will be deactivated. Your Association can reactivate your token when you retrieve it, but they will charge you a reactivation fee. If you actually did lose your token, you would have those seven days to go to your Realtor Association office and buy a new one.
Does the SAFEMLS token interfere with pacemakers?
Clareity Security has confirmed with the manufacturer that there are no health or safety issues associated with the use of the SAFEMLS token with pacemakers. The token runs on a very small battery that transmits very low frequency (less than a wrist watch) and only when in use (pressing the grey button).