As real estate transactions move increasingly online, cybercriminals have found new ways to exploit digital communication. One of the most dangerous schemes is wire fraud, where scammers pose as legitimate professionals—such as a title company, lender, or real estate agent—to trick buyers into sending funds to fraudulent accounts.
At Clarion Title Company, protecting your transaction is our top priority. Understanding how wire fraud happens—and how to prevent it—is the best way to ensure your money gets to the right place safely.
How Wire Fraud Happens
Wire fraud typically begins with a phishing attack, where criminals gain access to legitimate email accounts or create look-alike addresses. They monitor the communication between buyers, agents, and title companies and wait for the perfect moment—right before closing—to send fake wiring instructions.
These emails often look completely authentic, using real names, signatures, and logos. They might urge you to “send funds immediately” or claim that “instructions have changed.” Once the funds are wired, they are quickly transferred overseas and become nearly impossible to recover.
How to Protect Yourself from Wire Fraud
1. Always Verify Wiring Instructions Directly
Never rely solely on emailed instructions. Before wiring any money, call Clarion Title Company using a verified phone number—not one listed in the email—to confirm details. We will never change wiring instructions via email.
2. Be Cautious of Last-Minute Changes
If you receive updated instructions or an urgent message requesting immediate action, consider it a red flag. Legitimate companies rarely change wiring information, especially close to closing day.
3. Check the Sender’s Email Carefully
Scammers often create nearly identical email addresses with subtle differences, such as a missing letter or added punctuation. Always double-check that the sender’s address matches prior communication exactly.
4. Use Secure Communication Channels
Clarion Title Company uses encrypted, secure platforms for transmitting sensitive information. Avoid sending personal or financial details through standard email.
5. Confirm Receipt of Funds
After sending your wire, call your title company to confirm that the funds were received in the correct account. This simple step can help detect issues early if something goes wrong.
What to Do If You Suspect Fraud
If you think you’ve received a fraudulent message or may have wired money to the wrong account, act immediately. Contact your bank to request a wire recall, then notify your title company, lender, and local authorities. You can also file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov).
Time is critical—the faster you act, the greater the chance of recovering your funds or halting the transfer before it’s completed.
How Clarion Title Company Protects Your Funds
Our team follows strict security protocols to keep your transaction safe. We use encrypted systems for sharing wiring information, require multi-step verification for all funds transfers, and educate every client about fraud prevention before closing begins.
Clarion Title Company will never send wiring instructions via unsecured email or change details without verbal confirmation. By combining secure technology with diligent communication, we make sure your funds—and your peace of mind—are protected.
Why Awareness Is the Best Defense
Wire fraud is a real threat, but it’s one that can be prevented through awareness and caution. By staying alert, double-checking details, and working with a title company that prioritizes cybersecurity, you can confidently complete your closing without worry.
Clarion Title Company is committed to protecting clients through education, transparency, and secure practices designed to prevent fraud at every stage of the process.
Protect Your Funds with Trusted Professionals
Don’t let cybercriminals jeopardize your real estate transaction. Order a title with Clarion Title Company today and close with confidence, knowing your funds and information are in safe hands.