Buying or selling a home involves large amounts of money, and unfortunately, scammers know it.

Artificial intelligence has made real estate fraud much more sophisticated. Criminals can now create convincing emails, fake phone numbers, and even clone someone’s voice. That means a fraudulent call could potentially sound like your Realtor, lender, escrow officer, title representative—or even someone in your family.

Even more concerning, scammers may already know details about your transaction, such as the property address, closing date, escrow company, or approximate amount being wired.

A Familiar Voice Is No Longer Enough

If you are buying or selling a home, never send or redirect money simply because an email, text, or phone call appears legitimate.

Be especially cautious if someone tells you:

• Wiring instructions have changed.

• Money needs to be sent immediately.

• Your closing will be delayed unless you act quickly.

• You need to send funds to a different account.

One Simple Rule Can Protect You

When money is involved, verify independently before sending anything.

If you receive wiring instructions, especially new or changed instructions, call your escrow or title company directly using a phone number you already know and trust—not the number provided in the suspicious email or text.

Verify the company, recipient, bank, account information, and wiring instructions before sending your money.

Technology has changed, and unfortunately, so have the scammers.

Buying or selling a home is stressful enough without worrying about someone stealing your down payment, proceeds, or life savings. Taking a few extra minutes to independently verify instructions could prevent a devastating loss.

Remember: even if the voice sounds exactly like someone you know, that alone is no longer proof that you are actually speaking with that person.

When money is involved: STOP. CALL. VERIFY.