Wire Fraud Wars: Fighting to Keep Your Clients (and Yourself) Safe

“Wire fraud isn’t just a distant threat anymore – it’s happening every day in real estate transactions across the country, and it’s costing buyers, sellers, agents and brokerages millions of dollars every year,” says Cheryl Knowlton, a 26-year real estate veteran, broker, national educator, author and Certified Speaking Professional. 

“As our industry continues to rely more on digital communication and remote transactions, cybercriminals are getting smarter, faster and more convincing,” she notes. “Many agents assume ‘It won’t happen to me,’ until it does – and by then it’s too late.” 

Knowlton is teaching a session at this year’s Triple Play Realtor® Convention and Trade Expo titled “Wire Fraud Wars: Fighting to Keep Your Clients (and Yourself) Safe.” 

“This session is incredibly timely because the legal, financial and reputational consequences of wire fraud are only increasing,” she explains. “Agents need more than just awareness – they need tools, scripts and action plans to protect themselves and their clients in every single transaction. We’re not just talking about theory – we’re diving into real-world cases, practical strategies and proactive solutions. This is one of the most urgent risk management conversations in real estate today.” 

One of Knowlton’s biggest tips for avoiding wire fraud is to never trust wiring instructions sent via email, no matter who they come from. She advises all real estate professionals to always verify wiring instructions over the phone using a trusted, independently sourced number. 

“Realtors® can expect to leave this session with real, actionable strategies – not just information,” she promises. “You’ll learn how to create your own wire fraud prevention protocol, communicate effectively with clients about these risks and confidently spot red flags in emails, texts and transaction documents.” 

In addition, attendees can expect to walk away with scripts, sample warnings and office-wide best practices, as well as knowledge about real-life case studies. 

“In a world where a single misstep can lead to six-figure losses and reputation damage, this course gives you the edge to stay legally safe, ethically grounded and fiercely professional,” Knowlton says. “I’m here to help you become your client’s cybersecurity hero and to make sure your business stays protected in this high-risk digital age.” 

Learn more about preventing wire fraud by attending Knowlton’s session at Triple Play on Tuesday, Dec. 9, from 2 to 5 p.m. Register online for Triple Play.