Wire fraud is very common in the real estate business so be careful whenever you are involved in a real estate transaction. Thieves contact you via email pretending to be the title company or the real estate agent. They often know the escrow number and information about the home you are purchasing. Never trust instructions by email and always contact the title company directly to verify wire information. Here are some tips for you:
Verify wire fraud directions through a phone call.
Watch email addresses closely. There might be a slight difference in the email address of your agent. An example.... johnsmith@comcast.com (real) vs. johnsmith.comcast@mail.fr (fake)
Watch for any syntax errors such as words missing, or differences in how the person has talked or communicated to you previously.
Call your agent directly to verify.
Realtor Magazine, December 27, 2018