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The FBI calls it house stealing and since at least 2008 it is a specific kind of fraud that is on the rise. One of the reasons it is on the rise is because of the ease of the crime. Owning real (as in real estate) property does not require possessing it the same way private property does. All you need to claim title (ownership) is a document with your name on it, a signature from the prior owner selling it to you and it needs to be “recorded” with the local county records office. To a person willing to commit fraud, this is a very low bar and can be accomplished with relative ease. All of the information the fraudster needs is a matter of public record.
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Here’s how it generally works:
1. The con artists start by picking out a house to steal—say, YOURS.
2. Next, they assume your identity—getting a hold of your name and personal information (easy enough to do off the Internet) and using that to create fake IDs, social security cards, etc.
3. Then, they go to an office supply store and purchase forms that transfer property.
4. After forging your signature and using the fake IDs, they file these deeds with the proper authorities, and lo and behold, your house is now THEIRS.
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Reporting
When deed fraud does occur it is imperative that you report it as soon as possible. For many victims of fraud they are unaware of who to report the crime to and what steps to take after. What makes the matter worse is that many of the agencies that victims would report to also do not know what the next steps are either. When you have discovered that you are the victim of fraud you need someone to give you answers and the road map as to how to defend yourself. We have assembled that road map here and provided the necessary steps and agencies for you to contact.
Not everyone experiences the same risk from deed fraud. Take our specialized risk assessment to see where you rank in our risk system.