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Fraudulent Transactions
Fraudulent Transactions
Are there any places that I can sign up for notices of the latest information security threats and issues?
Yes, there are several. These organizations provide period e-mail updates on information security threats:
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Internal Revenue Service
Federal Trade Commission
– to receive scam alerts
National Cyber Awareness System Mailing Lists
– from the United States – Computer Emergency Readiness Team
I am opening a new file and something does not seem right. The buyer stated he learned about our firm on the internet, he is not currently residing in the United States, and he is sending the deposit check directly to our firm. What should I check?
This gut feeling could happen for any number of reasons. Below are some items to consider:
If a real estate agent is participating in the transaction, give them a call. (Do not e-mail the real estate agent as the agent’s e-mail may have been compromised, which is potentially how you were brought into the transaction.) Ask the real estate agent if they met the buyer in person or were also contacted online.
Require more than one form of identification before accepting the employment. Make copies and re-check the identification at closing.
Contact the record owner of the property and verify the sale. (Obtain seller contact information independently of the real estate agent and buyer.)
What resources are available for more information?
Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council
-Cybersecurity Awareness page with many links as well as Cybersecurity Assessment Tool
Federal Bureau of Investigation
– information on scams and safety on the internet and how to protect your computer
Federal Trade Commission
– Start with Security: A Guide for Business