if you’re buying a home, selling one, or working in real estate, you need to hear this:
The FBI is raising red flags about a massive rise in real estate fraud.
And no, this isn’t just something that happens to “other people.” It’s hitting everyday buyers and agents right now — and it’s costing folks millions.
Let’s break down what’s going on, why it matters, and how to stay safe — all in simple, no-jargon language.
🕵🏽♂️ What Is Real Estate Fraud, Exactly?
It’s when scammers sneak into a real estate transaction — usually online — and trick someone into sending money to the wrong place. Most of the time, it involves:
- Fake wiring instructions
- Spoofed emails
- Phishing scams
- Hacked accounts
It’s fast. It’s quiet. And by the time you realize something’s off, the money is gone.
📊 Why Is the FBI Getting Involved?
Because the numbers are terrifying. According to the FBI:
- Over $400 million was lost to real estate wire fraud in just one year.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC) is the top method — where scammers pretend to be someone you trust.
- Most victims? Regular homebuyers like you and me.
This crime is growing fast because real estate deals involve big money, tons of emails, and lots of last-minute changes — the perfect storm for fraud.
⚠️ What to Watch For (Red Flags)
Here’s what the FBI and cybersecurity pros say to keep an eye on:
🚩 Last-minute changes to wiring instructions
If you get a new account number out of the blue, stop and verify with a phone call.
🚩 Emails that sound urgent or rushed
Scammers love pressure. Real agents or title companies won’t force you to wire money “immediately.”
🚩 Email addresses that are almost right
Like titleco1.com instead of titleco.com. Just one letter off, and boom — your money’s in the wrong hands.
🚩 Requests to open attachments or click unknown links
These can install malware or take you to a fake site that looks exactly like the real thing.
🔐 What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
No need to panic — just follow these smart, simple steps:
✅ Call Before You Wire
Use a known phone number (not from the email!) and double-check all wiring details.
✅ Use a Secure Portal
Ask your agent or title company if they use encrypted platforms — and stick to them.
✅ Watch for Red Flags
If anything feels weird — like a new contact, new info, or off-sounding emails — stop and verify.
✅ Slow Down
Scammers want you rushed. Taking 2 extra minutes to confirm could save you $200,000.
💬 Final Word: Stay Calm, Stay Smart
It’s wild to think that in today’s world, you could lose your dream home (and your savings) to one fake email. But that’s why the FBI is sounding the alarm — because they’ve seen too many people learn the hard way.
You’ve got the tools now. Be alert. Ask questions. Pick up the phone. Trust your gut.
Your future home is worth protecting — and so are you.