Protect Your Home: Understanding Deed Fraud and Property Theft

Your Home Is More Than a House. It's One of Your Most Valuable Assets.

Most people regularly monitor their bank accounts, credit cards, and online activity for fraud. But many homeowners don't realize that criminals may target something even more valuable: the deed to their home.

Property deed fraud, also known as title theft or house stealing, occurs when criminals use forged documents to illegally transfer ownership of a property without the homeowner's knowledge.

What Is Deed Fraud?

Deed fraud occurs when a fraudster records a forged deed with a local government office, making it appear as though ownership of a property has been transferred.

Common Red Flags

• You receive notices regarding a property transaction you did not authorize
• Mortgage or loan statements appear for accounts you never opened
• You stop receiving property tax bills or utility notices
• Someone contacts you claiming ownership of your home
• Unexpected changes appear in county property records
• You discover liens or loans connected to your property that you did not request

Who Is Most at Risk?

• Elderly homeowners
• Owners of vacant or rental properties
• Individuals who own property free and clear
• Seasonal residents
• Estates of deceased property owners
• Owners who have recently inherited property

How to Protect Yourself

1. Monitor Your Property Records

Follow these simple steps:

• Visit your local County Clerk, Recorder, or Register of Deeds website.
• Search for your property using your address, owner name, or tax parcel number.
• Review recorded documents associated with your property, including:
  • Deeds
  • Mortgages
  • Liens
  • Satisfaction of mortgage documents
• Verify that all recorded documents were authorized by you.

2. Sign Up for Property Alerts

3. Review Mail Carefully

4. Protect Personal Information

5. Monitor Your Credit

Fraud Prevention Tip

Check your county's property records at least twice a year and enroll in any available property fraud alert services

What Should You Do If You Suspect Deed Fraud?

Contact your county recorder, report the incident to law enforcement, notify your mortgage lender, contact a real estate attorney, and consider placing fraud alerts on your credit reports.

Stay Informed. Stay Protected.

Awareness is one of the strongest defenses against fraud. Regularly monitoring your property records and responding quickly to unusual activity can help safeguard one of your most important investments.