Home title theft happens when someone fraudulently changes the ownership of your property’s title — often by forging documents — and then tries to sell or mortgage it without your knowledge. While it’s not extremely common, it can be financially and emotionally devastating.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
1. Check Your Title Regularly
- Review public property records to confirm your name is still listed as the legal owner.
- Many counties let you search online for free.
2. Sign Up for Property Alerts
- Some local recorder’s offices offer free property fraud alert programs that notify you if documents are filed against your property.
3. Secure Your Personal Information
- Shred sensitive mail.
- Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
- Watch for phishing attempts asking for personal details.
4. Monitor Your Credit
- Unexplained new loans or accounts could signal fraud.
- Get free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.
5. Consider Title Insurance or Title Monitoring Services
- Standard title insurance covers past issues, but some companies offer monitoring services for ongoing protection.
