Quick answer
Stop and independently verify payment instructions through a trusted, previously established channel.
Do now
Call the known closing professional using a verified number, not the number in the new message. Confirm recipient and account details through the agreed secure process. If money was sent to a suspected fraudster, contact your bank immediately and use official reporting channels.
Watch for
A familiar email thread can be compromised. Urgency or correct property details do not prove authenticity. Never send credentials to “verify” the payment.
Official sources
CFPB — Review Documents Before Closing, FTC — IdentityTheft.gov.
