Wire Fraud & First-time Home Buyers - How we educate our buyer clients

🎯 First-Time Buyers Are Prime Targets for Wire Fraud 
Great article on Wire Fraud from Florida Association of Realtors -- please be aware! Wire fraud is on the rise - and first-time homebuyers are three times more likely to fall victim, according to the 2025 State of Wire Fraud Report (via Florida Realtors).
🚨 Key Stats:
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- 1 in 20 consumers in real estate deals lose money to fraud.
- 25% report receiving suspicious messages during the transaction.
- 50% of buyers still start the process unaware of wire fraud risks.
🎭 How It Happens:
Scammers monitor emails, spoof trusted contacts, and send fake wiring instructions—often just before closing. Some even use AI voice deepfakes to impersonate agents or title reps.
🔐 How to Stay Safe:
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- Always verify wiring instructions by phone using a known number.
- Don’t rely on emails for sensitive financial info.
- Be wary of sudden changes in instructions or contact info.
🧠 Buyers Expect Protection:
35% of buyers say agents should educate them on wire fraud—and 80% would pay more for a professional who prioritizes security.
🛡️ Our Commitment:
At Engel & Völkers Upper Tampa Bay, we prioritize education and proactive security steps to protect your transaction from start to finish.
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Why Work With Us?
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👩💼 Our Leader
Stacy Dinucci Kitchell, License Partner, Broker/Owner of Engel & Völkers Upper Tampa Bay
💼 A “recovering” Real Estate Financial Analyst with a deep background in pricing strategy, Stacy combines industry knowledge with personalized service.
📘 BS in Finance, Indiana University – Kelley School of Business
🏆 Recipient of the 2025 Engel & Völkers Ruby Award
🔗 View Stacy’s LinkedIn Profile
🤝 Our Team
⭐ #1 Realtor Team on Angi.com - Check out our reviews!
🏅 Consecutive winner of the Angi Super Service Award since 2012
Learn More About Our Team Here
Contact Us
📩 Call or text us at 813-693-1003
📧 Or email: uppertampabay@evrealestate.com
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