Wire Fraud

Here is a helpful guide from Title One, a Title and Escrow Co. on how to avoid wire fraud . . .

Cybercriminals constantly seek victims to wire them compensation, sales proceeds, or deposits. Real estate transactions are especially vulnerable. Here are steps to protect your money.

Call Before Sending Money:

• Do not wire money without calling us, TitleOne, to confirm wiring instructions.

• Call us if you are suspicious. Be wary of emails asking for money early or for part of the money needed to close. Don't trust an email that changes, updates, or "re-sends" wire instructions.

• Call your financial institution after you have talked to us. Confirm that they have the correct information.

Call After Sending

• Call us after sending your money to make sure we received it.

• Staying in touch with your escrow officer is the best way to avoid problems.

Act Immediately if Something Seems Wrong

• Contact your financial institution. Ask your bank to contact the bank where the wire was sent.

• Contact your local Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) office – the FBI works with other agencies and might be able to return or freeze the funds.

• File a complaint online with the FBI at https://bec.ic3.govOpens in a new tab.