How to Prevent Deed Fraud?

Deed fraud is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for any property owner, including residential and commercial. It involves illegally transferring a property's title from the rightful owner to a fraudster. However, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from this type of fraud. Following these steps can help protect yourself from deed fraud and ensure your property remains in your hands.

Deed Fraud Prevention

1. Monitor your credit report: Regularly check your credit report for any suspicious activity or unauthorized credit inquiries. This can help you identify any potential fraud early on.

2. Keep your personal information secure: Be cautious when sharing your personal information, especially your Social Security number, and never give out this information over the phone or via email.

3. Keep your property records up to date: Make sure your property records are accurate and up to date. If you notice any discrepancies, contact your county's land records office immediately.

4. Be wary of unsolicited offers: Be cautious of unsolicited offers to buy or sell your property, especially if the offer seems too good to be true. Always verify the identity of the person or company making the offer before proceeding.

5. Consider purchasing title insurance: Title insurance can protect against losses from title fraud or other title-related issues.

6. Regularly check your property's title: Regularly check the title of your property to ensure that it has not been transferred without your knowledge or consent.

7. Report any suspicious activity: If you suspect you may be a victim of deed fraud, report it to your local law enforcement agency and the Federal Trade Commission.

What to Do If You Suspect Deed Fraud

If you suspect you have fallen victim to deed fraud, acting quickly is crucial. Here are the first three steps to take:

1. Contact local law enforcement: Report the crime to your local law enforcement agency. Please provide them with as much information as possible about the incident, including any evidence you may have. Resources like the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center can also help you report deed fraud.

2. Notify your title company and lenders: Contact your title company and any lenders involved in the property to inform them of the fraud. They can help you take the necessary steps to protect your property and financial interests.

3. Consult a real estate attorney: Seek the advice of a real estate attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and take corrective action. They can also help you understand your rights and options.

Deed fraud can have severe consequences for the victims, as demonstrated in the case of United States v. Johnson. In this case, the defendant and his co-conspirators created false deeds for properties and used them to obtain loans from lenders. The loans were not repaid, resulting in losses for the lenders and the victims who owned the properties. The defendant was sentenced to 18 months for his involvement in the scheme.