
Deed Theft Protection
Deed theft, also known as property title fraud, is a growing form of real estate fraud in which criminals illegally transfer ownership of a home or property without the true owner’s knowledge or consent. This is often done through forged signatures, fake documents, identity theft, or deceptive tactics designed to make it appear as though the scammer legally owns the property. Once a fraudulent deed is recorded, thieves may attempt to sell the property, take out loans against it, or create financial and legal complications for the rightful owner. Because deed theft can happen quietly and without immediate warning signs, property owners should regularly monitor their property records, secure their personal information, and take proactive steps to protect their real estate assets.

How to protect yourself against deed theft
ENABLE PROPERTY ALERTS
Sign up for property fraud alerts with your county
recorder's office to be notified immediately if any
document is filed in your name. Early detection is
key to stopping fraud before it causes damage.
SECURE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
Protect your identity by freezing your credit
using strong passwords, shredding sensitive
documents, and being cautious about what
you share online. Deed theft often starts
with identity theft
REVIEW YOUR PROPERTY
RECORDS REGULARLY
Check your property records online
or at your county recorder's office
at least once a month to ensure no
unauthorized changes have been
made to your deed or ownership
CONSIDER A TRUST
OR LLC
Placing your property in a trust or LLC adds
a layer of protection by making it harder
for scammers to target you and keeping
your personal information off public records.
If It Happens — MOVE FAST
If you ever suspect deed theft:
-
Contact your county recorder immediately
-
File a police report
-
File a “quiet title” action in court
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Notify your mortgage lender (if applicable)