Once upon a time, the idea of digitally swapping faces or creating hyper-realistic videos of people saying things they never actually said was confined to Hollywood blockbusters. Think of movies where actors were digitally de-aged or deceased celebrities made surprising cameos. However, in 2017, a new term hit the internet: “deepfake.” A blend of “deep learning” and “fake,” the term was originally coined when a Reddit user used AI to swap celebrities’ faces in videos.
Since then, deepfake technology has evolved at warp speed. While some use it for harmless fun—like making historical figures “sing” pop songs—others have taken a more sinister route. Today, deepfakes are being used in political disinformation, identity fraud, and cybercrime, including the increasingly sophisticated diversion of funds and properties in real estate sale and refinance transactions.
As fraud tactics evolve, so must the way the industry protects consumers and transactions. That’s why Alliant National has launched Verify, Then Trust—a new initiative designed to raise awareness and reinforce best practices that help stop fraud before it becomes a claim. Agents are urged to Verify, Then Trust on every file, every party, every time.
The Rise of Deepfake Fraud in Real Estate
Deepfake fraud has been making headlines in unexpected ways, and real estate is one of the latest industries to be hit. In the past two years, fraudsters have leveraged AI-powered deepfake technology to pose as property owners, financial executives, and even notary publics. Even experienced agents working with what they think are repeat or loyal customers have suffered devastating losses.
Take, for example, a case from 2023 where a scammer used a deepfake voice to impersonate a real estate attorney in communications with a client. The unsuspecting buyer believed he was speaking with his legitimate attorney and wired a six-figure down payment—straight into the scammer’s account.
Another shocking case involved a fraudster using a deepfake video to pose as a property owner looking to sell a luxury home. The scammer managed to fool not only the buyer, but also the title company, leading to the fraudulent sale of a multimillion-dollar estate.
Of course, there was also the fraudulent attempt to force a foreclosure sale of Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home, which made headlines in 2024. These fraudsters are bold and believe that increasingly large and high-profile targets can yield even bigger payouts.
How to Combat Deepfake Fraud in Real Estate
With deepfake technology becoming more advanced, spotting fraud with the naked eye is harder than ever. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. Here are some strategies to avoid falling victim:
Double-Verify Identities
Don’t rely solely on phone calls, video calls, or emails. Always confirm identities through multiple channels—such as in-person meetings, official documentation, letters via “snail mail,” and voice confirmation through previously established phone numbers. This is even more critical in vacant land transactions or refinances involving free and clear properties.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
When transferring funds or signing critical documents, consider requiring multi-factor authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security beyond visual or voice verification alone. It’s always important to treat funds with great care—as if the money were your own—and take appropriate steps to protect them. If funds go missing, customers may seek reimbursement from the agent’s personal account.
Scrutinize Video Calls and Emails
If something feels off—like unnatural blinking, delayed audio sync, or robotic speech patterns—be skeptical. Deepfake videos often have subtle imperfections that can give them away. Ask probing questions a deepfake would not be able to answer accurately. You may even want to establish a special passphrase with customers, provided to them only through a secure portal.
Conduct Due Diligence
If a new client or seller suddenly appears with urgent demands, do your due diligence. Check property records, verify business affiliations, and ensure everything aligns with known facts. As they saying goes: If it appears too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers also like to amp-up the pressure, so do not let a hurried closing or pushy customer cause you to shortcut your verification processes.
Leverage Fraud Detection Tools
Just as AI is being used to create deepfakes, it’s also being used to detect them. Some AI-driven tools analyze facial movements, voice anomalies, and inconsistencies in digital assets to help identify fraudulent activity. In the real estate space, tools such as CertifID add another layer of confidence to the process. Alliant National agents can now use CertifID with discounted pricing to protect deals by verifying identities, managing and ordering payoffs, and securing wire instructions. Verify, then Trust — every file, every party, every time.
The Bottom Line
Deepfake technology is no longer a futuristic concern—it’s here, and it’s changing the way fraudsters operate. By staying vigilant and implementing multi-layered verification methods, you can ensure that your next property transaction doesn’t turn into a deepfake disaster. Remember: Verify, Then Trust — every file, every party, every time.
See Alliant National’s recent Title Tip, which was inspired by a real-life attempt to commit wire fraud using deepfake technology.
