In one sentence
The banking details directing where closing funds are sent, verified carefully to prevent fraud.
The longer version
Wire instructions specify the receiving account for closing disbursements. Because wire fraud targets exactly this moment, verification through independent channels is standard practice before any funds move.
Fraudulent instruction changes are a real and costly risk, which is why wire verification is its own controlled step in a disciplined closing.
Common questions
- Why is wire fraud a risk at closing?
- Because large sums move on instructions sent by email, and criminals impersonate title companies or counsel with altered wiring details. Funds sent to a fraudulent account are rarely recovered.
- How should wire instructions be verified?
- By calling a known, independently obtained phone number for the recipient, never a number in the email, and confirming any change to instructions the same way.
- What should happen if wire instructions change at the last minute?
- Treat it as a red flag. Stop, verify through a known contact, and do not send funds until the change is confirmed independently.
Keep reading