Recognizing the warning signs of wire transfer fraud can help you avoid becoming a victim. Many schemes begin with some form of social engineering, where fraudsters pretend to be someone you trust—like a real estate agent, attorney, escrow officer, or bank representative. A sudden change in wiring instructions via email or text, especially involving urgency or secrecy, is a major red flag. Legitimate professionals rarely change wire instructions without prior verification.
You should also be wary of emails that come from addresses that look almost identical to a trusted source but may include subtle alterations, such as one changed letter or an added number. These spoofed email accounts are often used to make fraudulent requests seem legitimate. Spelling errors, unusual phrasing, and pressure to act quickly are also signs of a scam.
If you receive a wire transfer request, especially for a large amount such as a real estate down payment or business transaction, always confirm the request verbally using a known and trusted phone number—not one provided in the suspicious message. By being vigilant and knowing the red flags, you can take steps to protect yourself. If you suspect you’ve been targeted, it’s crucial to contact a wire transfer fraud attorney immediately to preserve evidence and begin recovery efforts.
