August 21, 2026 · 4 min read
Protect Your Closing: How to Avoid Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is one of the most common scams in real estate. Learn how to spot fraudulent wiring instructions and why you should always verify wire requests by phone before sending funds.
We strive to provide helpful, accurate information for general educational purposes. However, this content is not intended as legal advice. For guidance on your specific legal situation we recommend consulting a licensed attorney.
Buying or selling a home is exciting, but it's also important to stay alert during the closing process. One of the most common scams targeting real estate transactions is wire fraud.
Scammers may impersonate a real estate agent, lender, title company, or other trusted party and send fraudulent wiring instructions. These emails can look convincing, especially when they arrive close to closing and contain details about your transaction.
The single most important step
Always verify wire instructions by phone
It is vitally important to verify any wire request you receive by email with a second, independent confirmation: call our office using a trusted phone number you already have — not a number listed in the email. Never rely on email alone to confirm an account number, routing number, or amount.
Here are a few ways to protect yourself
- Never trust a last-minute change in wiring instructions. If you receive an email stating that wiring instructions have changed, stop and call us immediately. It is very unlikely we will ever change our wire instructions mid-transaction.
- Be cautious with email. Never assume an email is legitimate simply because it contains familiar names, logos, or transaction details.
- Confirm by phone before you send. Before wiring any funds, call us directly to verify the account information and amount. Always use a trusted phone number for our office.
- If something feels wrong, speak up. Your closing team would rather receive an extra phone call than have you risk sending funds to the wrong account.
At ClearPath Title, protecting your transaction is our top priority. We encourage every buyer and seller to remain vigilant and to always verify wiring instructions before sending funds.
When in doubt, stop and call us. A few minutes of verification could protect your entire transaction.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a cashier's check to closing instead?
We do not accept cashier's checks for closing funds. Cashier's checks can take several days to verify and clear into our account, potentially delaying closing and disbursement.
What about earnest money?
Good question! Yes, earnest money can be accepted in the form of a cashier's check, wire, money order, or certified funds.
Do you accept personal checks?
We accept personal checks up to $500.
Ready to schedule your closing?
Talk with our team about your next Tennessee real estate transaction. Have questions about title insurance or your closing? Ready to schedule? We're happy to help.