Protecting Your Home From Title Theft
The Spokane Police Department has issued a warning about a rising trend in home title theft scams affecting homeowners nationwide. Criminals commit this fraud by stealing identities and creating fake documents to transfer property titles, enabling them to sell or borrow against the homes. Many victims do not realize they have been defrauded until it is too late, resulting in lost ownership. To combat this, homeowners can monitor their titles through the county register, looking for any unauthorized filings or liens. The department suggests utilizing home title monitoring services or performing checks on their own for free.
If fraud is suspected, reporting it immediately is crucial. This crime also extends to land parcels, making awareness vital. Proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.