Realtor Safety Month often focuses on physical safety, but in today’s digital age, we also need to be talking about financial safety. Wire fraud and cryptocurrency scams are two of the fastest-growing threats in real estate, and they can devastate a client’s finances in a matter of minutes.
As realtors, it’s our job to help clients not only find their dream home but also protect their hard-earned money. Here are some tips I share with my clients in Columbia, MO and beyond to keep their transactions safe:
1. Understand the Threat of Wire Fraud
Wire fraud has become one of the biggest dangers in real estate. Criminals hack into email accounts, impersonate realtors or title companies, and send fake wiring instructions. Buyers unknowingly wire money to the wrong account and, in most cases, never see it again.
The best defense? Educate your clients early. Let them know that wiring instructions will never change mid-transaction and that they should always call their title company directly (using a verified phone number, not an email signature) to confirm before sending funds.
2. Double-Check Every Detail
Even a single digit off in an account number can mean money is gone forever. Encourage clients to verify details verbally with the title company and compare them to written instructions. Two minutes of caution can save thousands of dollars.
3. Talk About Cryptocurrency Carefully
More real estate transactions now involve cryptocurrency, and while it can be innovative, it’s also risky. The market is volatile, and scams are on the rise. If your client is interested in using crypto, make sure they have trusted legal and financial advisors involved. Never try to handle a crypto transaction on your own if you’re not experienced — it’s not worth the risk.
4. Use Secure Communication Channels
Whenever possible, use encrypted platforms or secure portals for sharing financial details, and avoid sending sensitive information over plain email. Remind your clients to do the same.
If a secure system isn’t available, take extra precautions. For example, share part of an account number or access information through one method (like text) and the rest through another (like a phone call). Splitting details reduces the risk of someone intercepting the full information.
5. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
The more we educate and remind our clients, the better. Don’t assume they know the risks. A quick conversation about wire fraud prevention or crypto safety could be the thing that saves their life savings.
Final Thoughts
Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever make. As realtors, part of our duty is to make sure our clients navigate it safely—not just physically, but financially. Trust your instincts. If something seems odd, take a moment to review and verify.
This Realtor Safety Month, let’s recommit to protecting our clients from digital threats like wire fraud and crypto scams. It’s not just about closing deals—it’s about safeguarding dreams, investments, and futures.