What should I do if I receive an email offer to refinance my mortgage loan? Should I respond directly to the email or click on any provided links?
If you are unsure of the legitimacy of any apparent bank email or other communication you receive, you should contact your bank directly via reliable channels (e.g., telephone number on the bank's own website or on a recent bank statement). Do not click on any links and do not respond directly to any email or other communication you feel may be suspicious.
Phishing scams posing as a real estate or settlement agent attempt to divert consumers' closing costs and down payments into a fraudulent account by confirming or suggesting last-minute changes to wiring instructions. To avoid these scams,
- identify two trusted representatives at your bank or mortgage company and settlement firm to confirm the closing process and payment instructions.
- before wiring money, always confirm instructions with your trusted representatives.
- avoid using phone numbers or links in an email.
- do not email financial information.
- be mindful of providing financial information in a phone conversation.
Last Reviewed: April 2021
Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.