NFDA has been made aware of a new variation of a band-related scam that resulted in a significant financial loss for a funeral home. The incident underscores just how convincing – and costly – these schemes have become.

In this case, a caller posing as a family member requested a memorial service for a loved one who had been cremated months earlier. The individual communicated professionally, agreed readily to suggested services and promptly signed contracts and invoices. The request included hiring a live band, with payment required in advance via wire transfer.

To proceed, the funeral home required full payment before paying the band. The “family member” paid by debit card, covering additional processing fees without hesitation. Shortly afterward, the funeral home wired payment to the band, which had provided a website, invoice and payment instructions.

On the morning of the scheduled service, the caller reported a sudden family emergency and postponed the event. The band never appeared. Attempts to contact the band failed, emails bounced back and the website became unreachable. Days later, the funeral home discovered the original payment had been charged back, leaving the firm responsible for the wired funds while awaiting bank review.

Red Flags to Watch For

• While every situation is different, this case highlights several warning signs members should take seriously:
• Requests to pay third-party vendors (bands, musicians, speakers) in advance by wire transfer
• A sense of urgency around securing a performer or vendor
• Reluctance to let the funeral home manage payments in customary ways
• Professional-looking invoices and websites that are difficult to independently verify
• Sudden cancellations followed by chargebacks
• Requests to bypass standard payment processes (e.g., providing card details by phone instead of secure invoicing)

Protecting Your Firm

Scammers are increasingly patient, polished and knowledgeable about funeral service operations. Even experienced professionals can be targeted.

NFDA encourages members to:

• Avoid wiring funds to third parties on behalf of families
• Require vendors to contract and bill families directly whenever possible
• Verify vendors through multiple independent sources
• Pause and reassess when requests fall outside normal practice
• Trust your instincts and slow the process when something feels off

If you encounter a suspected scam, document all communications and contact your bank immediately.