How to Help Protect Real Estate Ownership From Fraudulent Claims
Real estate ownership is documented through local land records, and those records are generally handled at the county or local recorder level, depending on the jurisdiction. Fraudulent claims can involve forged or false deeds and other recorded instruments, and local authorities note that these issues may be referred to law enforcement or other agencies when appropriate. The goal for property owners is not to become alarmed, but to build a practical routine for noticing irregularities and responding promptly.
1. Monitor property records where available.
Some counties and states offer property-owner alert programs that notify owners when certain real estate documents are recorded in their name or against a monitored property. These programs vary by jurisdiction, and some alerts are sent only after a document has already been recorded. Property owners may wish to check with their local recorder, clerk, or land records office to learn whether record-search tools or alert services are available in their area.
2. Pay attention to unexpected mail about your property.
A notice about a deed, mortgage, lien, tax matter, insurance change, or other filing that you do not recognize may warrant follow-up with the issuing office or a qualified professional. County real estate fraud units commonly deal with matters involving forged or false deeds, grand theft, forgery, and related real estate fraud complaints. Because local procedures differ, homeowners should use contact information obtained directly from the official recorder, tax assessor, court, or agency website rather than relying only on phone numbers or links included in an unexpected notice.
3. Safeguard personal information.
Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s personal information to commit fraud. The FTC advises consumers to protect personal information and provides recovery resources for people who believe their identity has been misused. The FBI also warns that sharing details such as birthdates, schools, family names, or pet names can give scammers information they may use to guess passwords or answer security questions. Practical precautions include using strong passwords, limiting what is shared publicly, securing mail, and being cautious before providing Social Security numbers, account numbers, or copies of identification.
4. Be cautious with unsolicited transfer or signing requests.
Phishing and spoofing schemes are designed to trick people into providing sensitive information, such as passwords or banking credentials. The FTC advises consumers to verify unexpected messages before clicking links or providing information and to report phishing attempts through ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If someone unexpectedly asks you to sign a deed, quitclaim document, power of attorney, loan document, wire instruction, or other property-related paperwork, pause and verify the request through independently obtained contact information.
5. Review title and closing documents.
For a home purchase or refinance, the CFPB states that borrowers generally receive a Closing Disclosure and should use the review period to ask questions and understand what they are signing. Title insurance documents, closing statements, settlement records, and recorded deeds can help property owners understand how ownership was documented at the time of purchase or financing. If you have an owner’s title insurance policy, reviewing the policy and any endorsements may help you identify whom to contact if a title concern arises.
6. Respond promptly to irregularities.
The FBI has warned about fraud schemes involving people who impersonate property owners in real estate transactions. If you discover a suspicious filing, an unfamiliar lien, a changed mailing address, or a transaction you did not authorize, consider contacting the local recorder’s office, local law enforcement, your title company or insurer, and a qualified real estate attorney. Procedures and remedies vary by state and county, so readers should consult a qualified real estate attorney, title professional, or local recorder’s office for guidance specific to their property and state.
A measured approach can help property owners reduce the chance that irregularities go unnoticed. Keeping records organized, monitoring official filings where available, protecting personal information, and seeking qualified help when something appears inconsistent are practical steps that can support the integrity of real estate ownership records.
Sources
Federal Bureau of Investigation, “Fraudsters Are Stealing Land Out from Under Owners.” https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/newark/news/fraudsters-are-stealing-land-out-from-under-owners?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Federal Bureau of Investigation, “Spoofing and Phishing.” https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/spoofing-and-phishing?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Federal Trade Commission, “Protect yourself from phishing scams.” https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/04/protect-yourself-phishing-scams?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Federal Trade Commission, IdentityTheft.gov Resources. https://www.identitytheft.gov/resources?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, “Fraud and scams.” https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/fraud/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, “Review documents before closing.” https://www.consumerfinance.gov/owning-a-home/close/review-documents-before-closing/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
California Department of Real Estate, “County Recorder Property Owner Alert Program.” https://dre.ca.gov/consumers/CountyAlerts.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office, “Real Estate Fraud Unit.” https://da.santaclaracounty.gov/prosecution/departments/real-estate-fraud-unit?utm_source=chatgpt.com
iCounty Notification Service, “Notification Service Home. https://deedwatch.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Emerald Advisors, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
