Protect Yourself from Wire Scams
Key Questions to Consider
While wire scams might not always make headlines, they are on the rise and can be just as damaging, if not more so. In 2023 alone, Americans lost nearly $344 million to these scams, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Wire scams have become the third most common type of scam payment, following bank transfers and cryptocurrency.
Scammers often target industries with high-value transactions and extensive communication, such as real estate and investments. With the shift to digital-first operations, it’s easier for fraudsters to intercept and manipulate communications.
Before you wire money—especially in response to unsolicited requests—ask yourself these five critical questions to help protect yourself and your loved ones from scams:
- Do You Know the Recipient?
This might seem obvious, but urgent requests can cloud our judgment. If you have any doubts about the person or organization requesting the transfer, take a moment to verify their identity. Be particularly cautious with individuals you’ve only interacted with online, especially if they are pushy or threatening. - What is the Purpose of the Request?
Always scrutinize the reason behind a wire request. If it’s unexpected, it’s likely a scam. Even if it appears to come from someone you know, confirm the request by speaking directly to them. Scammers can easily hack email and social media accounts to impersonate others. - Are There Supporting Documents?
Legitimate wire requests should come with documentation. If the requester is unwilling or unable to provide necessary documents, this could be a red flag. Always examine the wire instructions closely—anything that looks unofficial or lacks a recognizable logo should raise suspicion. - Are You Being Promised More Money?
Beware of scams that ask you to wire money in exchange for more money, such as supposed inheritances or lottery winnings. If you must send money to receive funds, it’s almost certainly a scam. Remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. - Are You Being Asked to Refund Money?
Be wary of requests claiming you were overpaid and need to wire the difference back. No legitimate company will ask for a refund in this manner, especially through a wire transfer.
Final Thoughts
Carefully vet any wire requests you receive. Once a wire transfer is completed, it cannot be reversed, and you won't have the same protections as with credit card or ACH transactions.
If you suspect a scam, ask yourself these questions to avoid potential financial loss. As scammers become more sophisticated, staying informed is your best defense.
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to fraud, contact your local law enforcement and call us immediately at (417) 578-9010 or (417) 578-9050.