Wire Fraud Notice

Effective Date: 3/1/26

Real estate transactions involve the transmission of sensitive financial and personal information. Protecting transaction information and reducing the risk of wire fraud is a priority at Stewart Title of South Western Montana. The guidance below outlines important security practices and recommended procedures for all parties involved in a transaction.

1. Secure Handling of Information

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect transaction information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or misuse.

Access to sensitive information is restricted to authorized personnel directly involved in the transaction and subject to internal access controls and confidentiality practices.

While we take reasonable precautions, no method of electronic transmission or storage is completely secure.

2. Wire Fraud Awareness

Wire fraud in real estate transactions is an increasing and significant risk.

Stewart Title of South Western Montana will not initiate changes to wiring instructions by email. We do not transmit revised wiring instructions through unsecured communication channels.

If you receive an email requesting changes to wiring instructions:

  • Do not respond to the email

  • Do not click on any links or open attachments

  • Do not send funds

  • Contact our office immediately using a verified telephone number obtained independently

  • Always verify wiring instructions directly with our office by telephone prior to sending funds

Failure to independently verify wiring instructions may result in loss of funds. Stewart Title of South Western Montana is not responsible for funds sent to incorrect or fraudulent accounts due to intercepted or compromised communications.

3. If You Suspect Fraud or Have Sent Funds

If you believe you may have sent funds to an incorrect or fraudulent account:

  • Contact your bank immediately and request a wire recall

  • Notify our office without delay

  • Contact local law enforcement as appropriate

Time is critical in attempting to recover wired funds.

4. Email Communications

Email is not a secure method for transmitting sensitive financial or non-public personal information.

We recommend that sensitive documents and financial information be transmitted only through secure methods authorized by our office. Clients and transaction parties assume the risk associated with electronic communications when choosing to transmit information via email.

Smooth and Seamless Transactions...

At Stewart Title of South Western Montana, we are committed to delivering a dependable and efficient experience for every client and partner we serve. Whether the transaction is residential or commercial, and whether you are a buyer, seller, lender, or service provider, our focus remains the same — clear communication, careful attention to detail, and steady guidance from start to finish.

Each transaction is handled with experienced underwriting support, and every policy is backed by more than a century of financial strength. Our goal is simple: to ensure your closing is handled properly, professionally, and without unnecessary complications.