Is a wire transfer request from a known supplier always safe?
Not if the bank account details have changed. Invoice fraud and payment diversion scams intercept supplier communications to redirect funds.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Invoice fraud — also known as payment diversion fraud or mandate fraud — involves a criminal intercepting or impersonating communications between a business and its supplier, then sending a fake invoice or bank-detail-change notification with the fraudster's account details. Finance teams that process the payment believe they are paying a genuine supplier. The fraud is often discovered only when the real supplier chases overdue payment. Before transferring any significant funds to a new or changed bank account, verify the change by calling the supplier on a previously verified phone number — not one included in the email requesting the change.
Common red flags
- Email from a supplier requesting a change of bank account details
- Invoice bank details differ from those on previous invoices
- Urgent request to process payment immediately
- Email address is slightly different from the normal supplier address
- Supplier or client cannot be reached through previously used contact details
What to do now
- Call the supplier on a verified number to confirm any bank detail changes before paying
- Introduce a two-person authorisation requirement for first payments to new accounts
- Report confirmed fraud to your bank immediately and to Action Fraud (UK) or the FBI IC3 (US)
- Review email security to check for unauthorised forwarding rules that could allow interception
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a wire transfer refunded after invoice fraud?
Speed is critical. Contact your bank within hours of discovery — they can attempt to recall the payment. Recovery rates are low but highest when action is taken immediately.