🔐Cybercrime & Scams Are Targeting Oklahoma Real Estate: What Every Licensee Must Know

The real estate hustle is real—but so are the scams. And unfortunately, in Oklahoma and across the U.S., criminals are getting more creative and aggressive in targeting real estate professionals, homebuyers, sellers, and renters.

As a licensee, you’re not just selling homes—you’re guarding sensitive client information and serving as a line of defense against fraud. From wire fraud to fake landlords and bogus buyers, it's open season on the unsuspecting.

Let’s break it down so you and your clients don’t get caught slipping.

🚨 Top Real Estate Cyber Threats + Fraud Scams You Need to Know

🕵️‍♀️ 1. Wire Fraud

Hackers infiltrate email threads, usually around closing time, and send convincing but fake wire instructions. One wrong move, and your client’s funds vanish.

Prevent it: Always confirm wire instructions by phone using a trusted, verified number.

📬 2. Phishing Emails & Spoofed Accounts

Emails that look like they’re from your title rep, broker, or client might actually be from scammers. These messages often ask for login credentials, urgent action, or ask you to click shady links.

Prevent it: Slow down and verify. Check sender email addresses closely. Never click suspicious links.

🧟‍♂️ 3. Fake Buyers and Sellers

Scammers are posing as legitimate buyers or sellers—often from out of state or overseas—just to access property information, waste time, or worse, phish for your login credentials and sensitive info.

Red flags:

• They won’t speak on the phone or meet in person

• They’re “cash buyers” in a rush

• They want to skip viewing the property

💸 4. Rental Scams & Fake Landlords

Scammers are listing homes they don’t own on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or fake websites, offering too-good-to-be-true rent prices to desperate renters. Once they collect deposits via Zelle, Cash App, or gift cards, they disappear.

Prevent it:

• Tell renters to always verify the listing with a licensed agent or property manager.

• Never pay deposits before touring or signing a legitimate lease.

• Watch out for listings that use photos stolen from Zillow or MLS.

💻 5. Ransomware & Data Breaches

A single infected file or link can lock you out of your systems, leak client info, and leave you legally exposed.

Prevent it: Keep all software up to date. Use antivirus tools and never open attachments from unknown sources.

🛡️ Your License Carries Responsibility—Protect It

OREC and NAR hold licensees to high standards when it comes to protecting clients and the integrity of the transaction. That includes cybersecurity and fraud prevention.

If you're not educating your clients—and protecting your systems—you could be held responsible when something goes wrong.

✅ What You Should Be Doing Right Now

• Use two-factor authentication on all email, CRM, and transaction tools.

• Include a fraud warning disclosure in your buyer and seller packets.

• Train your clients to verify everything—especially wire instructions.

• Stick to secure, encrypted platforms when sharing sensitive info.

• Post a scam warning on your website and rental listings.

• Report scams to the authorities—and let your MLS and broker know.

🧠 Final Thought

Scammers are counting on your clients being desperate or in a hurry. They’re banking on you being distracted or trusting. Don’t give them the edge.

You’ve worked hard to build your reputation and protect your license—now’s the time to double down on protecting your clients, too.

🎯 Stay sharp. Stay ethical. Stay ahead.