Deed thefts have grown in prevalence throughout New York State in the past year. The crime is defined by the suspect(s) transferring the title of a home without the homeowner's knowledge or approval. Profit from these fraudulent transactions is realized when the suspect completes the sale of the property, secures home equity loans, or uses the residence as collateral for other purchases.
Common-deed theft schemes include:
Thieves target:
- Homes that are in foreclosure with substantial liens.
- Abandoned residences.
- Homeowners who are elderly or disabled.
- Vacation homes.
- Residences with deceased deed holders where the family has not updated the County deed status.
- People who have been the victims of past identity theft.
Recommendations on ways to limit your risk of becoming a victim:
- Perform regular credit checks. Experian is a reputable credit monitoring service. Weekly checks can be performed free of charge at Annualcreditreport.com. Private businesses that provide credit protection, including title checks, normally apply fees.
- Watch your mail for unfamiliar utility notices or bank repayment books.
- Pay attention to incoming bills and/or bills that have stopped being delivered.
- Reporting real or suspected thefts to the NYS Attorney General's Office:
