Report a
real estate scam.

Real estate fraud is unique because a single incident can cost victims their entire life savings. The FBI reported over $145 million in losses from real estate wire fraud in 2023, with an average loss of approximately $70,000 per incident. But wire fraud is just one of many real estate scam types — deed theft, mortgage fraud, and fake investment schemes collectively represent billions in annual losses.

Closing wire fraud is the most acute threat for homebuyers. Hackers monitor email communications between real estate agents, title companies, and buyers. When closing approaches, they send a spoofed email that appears to be from the title company with updated wire instructions. The buyer sends their down payment — sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars — to the scammer's account. By the time the fraud is discovered, the money has been moved through multiple accounts and often overseas.

Deed theft and title fraud

Deed theft (sometimes called "house stealing") occurs when criminals forge deeds to transfer ownership of a property to themselves, then take out loans against it or sell it. Vacant properties and homes owned by elderly or deceased owners are the primary targets. The legitimate owner often doesn't discover the theft for months. Some cities now offer free title monitoring services — check with your county recorder's office.

Protecting your largest investment

For wire transfers at closing: always verify wiring instructions by phone using a number you find independently, never from the email. Call your title company directly before sending any wire. Set up title monitoring with your county. For mortgage applications, work only with licensed lenders (verify at NMLS Consumer Access). Be extremely suspicious of anyone offering foreclosure "rescue" services that require upfront fees — these are almost always scams targeting distressed homeowners.