Closing Day Wire Fraud Checklist for Real Estate Attorneys
Stop Wire Fraud Before It Reaches Your Closing Table
Real estate closings move large sums of money on tight deadlines, and criminals know it. One fake email with “updated” wiring instructions can send a client’s down payment to a fraudster’s account in minutes. This three-page checklist gives your team simple steps to catch fraud early and act fast if something goes wrong.
What’s inside:
- A closing day checklist: 10 steps to verify wiring instructions before, during and after the wire
- Red flags to watch for: the warning signs that mean “stop and call”
- A first-hour response plan: exactly what to do, and who to call, if a wire goes wrong
- A quick firm security check: 8 yes/no questions based on Massachusetts’ data security rule (201 CMR 17.00)
Secure Future Tech Solutions provides cybersecurity and managed IT services to businesses across Rhode Island and Massachusetts. We help law firms secure their email, protect client data, and stop wire fraud before it starts.
Questions about your firm’s security? Call 401-537-1170.
FAQ
Who is this checklist for?
Real estate attorneys, paralegals and closing staff who handle or approve wire transfers.
Is this legal advice?
No. It’s general information for educational purposes. Review your obligations under local laws and your professional rules.
What should I do if a wire has already gone to the wrong account?
Call your bank’s fraud line right away and report it to the FBI at ic3.gov. Page 2 of the checklist walks through the full first-hour plan.