How Deepfakes and AI Scams Are Infiltrating Real Estate

Picture this: you’re days away from closing on your dream home. You get an email from your agent—maybe even a video message—reminding you to wire the final funds. The voice sounds familiar, the face looks right, and the urgency feels real.

But it’s not me. It’s not your title rep. It’s not even a real person.

It’s AI.

Welcome to the new frontier of real estate fraud—where deepfakes and artificial intelligence are being weaponized to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars in seconds. This isn’t sci-fi. It’s happening right now, and it’s targeting buyers and sellers in one of the biggest transactions of their lives.

Let’s break it down—and more importantly, let’s talk about how to protect yourself.

So, What Exactly Are Deepfakes?

Deepfakes are videos, images, or voice recordings that are manipulated by artificial intelligence to look and sound like real people. Combine that with AI that can write like your attorney or spoof your agent’s email signature, and suddenly, you’re dealing with a whole new breed of scam.

Scammers are getting really good at pretending to be someone you trust. And in real estate, that’s dangerous. Because trust moves money.

The Real Estate Twist: What These Scams Look Like

Here’s how these scams are showing up in the wild—or will be soon:

  • Fake “title rep” video calls: An AI-generated person—complete with a name tag, office background, and a calm, professional voice—asks you to confirm wire instructions.

  • Emails written in your agent’s tone: Same emojis. Same sign-off. Just a slightly different email address—and instructions to “act fast” on transferring funds.

  • Fake listings with AI-generated photos: You fall in love with a property that doesn’t exist, chat with a fake “agent,” and lose your deposit.

And these aren’t always obvious. Some look better than the real thing.

Who’s Most At Risk?

Truth is, anyone can fall for it. But some groups are more vulnerable:

  • Remote or out-of-town buyers (they rely more heavily on digital communication)

  • Busy professionals who skim emails and just want to “get it done”

  • Older clients who may not catch the subtle red flags in a spoofed video or message

  • High-end clients—because big transactions mean bigger payouts for scammers

How to Outsmart the Scam Artists

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a tech expert to stay safe. You just need to slow down, ask questions, and know what to look for.

  • Never wire funds based on email alone. Ever. Confirm verbally—with a trusted contact.

  • Double-check the sender. Look closely at email addresses and links—one extra letter can make it a fake.

  • Initiate video calls yourself. If someone sends you a Zoom link, be skeptical—especially if money’s involved.

  • Pay attention to tone. If I suddenly sound robotic, generic, or pushy, pick up the phone. Something’s off.

What I Do to Protect You

I take this stuff seriously—because I’ve seen the damage it can cause. Here’s how I keep my clients safe:

  • I never send wiring instructions via email. I’ll confirm them with you directly, by phone or in person.

  • I use secure platforms for documents—not random links or Dropbox files.

  • I walk every client through common red flags before we’re under contract, so nothing catches you off guard.

  • If anything feels even slightly off, I want you to call me—whether it’s 10AM or 10PM.

We’re not just buying and selling homes here—we’re protecting people, finances, and futures.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Secure

Real estate will always be about people—but the way we interact is changing fast. And scammers? They’re evolving just as quickly. But when you have the right systems in place, and a smart team in your corner, you’re not just protected—you’re empowered.

So next time you get a message asking for money, take a beat and ask yourself:

Is that really my agent? Is that really me?

And if you’re ever unsure? Just call. I’m here for you—not a bot, not a fake—me.

For more expert tips, email me at ivona@ivonahomes.com