When criminals get hold of a homeowner’s personal information, they can misuse this information to commit deed fraud. They can steal the homeowner’s identity and eventually, transfer the property into their names without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
However, understanding how criminals steal a property deed can help protect homeowners from fraud. If you are a homeowner and wondering how to prevent deed fraud , here are some online safety tips that you can follow:
1. Be wary of suspicious online activity:
Do not open suspicious emails, SMS messages, or texts. Some indicators that you need to be wary of include:
- Poorly written emails
- Suspicious attachments or links
- The domain name is misspelled
- The message contains threats or urgency
When you click on suspicious links or attachments from unknown senders, you may unknowingly download malware capable of mining your computer for personal information. Criminals can use this information to commit identity theft.
2. Use strong passwords for emails and Wi-Fi-connected devices:
Weak passwords make it easy for cybercriminals to hack your bank account, social media accounts, emails, and electronic devices. It is important to use strong passwords. You should never use the same password across devices.
3. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for doing financial transactions:
Completing banking transactions through your computer or smartphone in public can put your bank account information at risk. Banks do their best to encrypt the data that is transmitted. But as public Wifi networks are often unencrypted. It gives cybercriminals a chance to snoop on data traveling to and from your device. This helps them gain access to your data. It is best to use your personal WiFi when doing financial transactions.
4. Do not share your bank details online:
Your bank and credit card agencies or government authorities will never ask for your confidential information via email. If you receive an email requesting your financial details, do not give your login information, customer ID, card number, and Social Security Number (SSN).
5. Use licensed anti-virus software:
To protect your computer from viruses, use licensed anti-virus software. Pirated versions of anti-virus software may be available for free, but they may fail to protect your computer from new viruses. Also, keep your antivirus updated, so that your confidential information is always protected.
How to prevent deed fraud or home title theft? What can be done other than following online safety tips?
Here are some useful tips:
- Subscribe to a title monitoring service. You will be notified of any activity regarding your home title.
- If your county has digitized records, register for the consumer notification service, which signs you up for alerts any time a document is recorded on your property.
If you are suspicious that you are a victim of home title theft, do the following:
- Place a fraud alert with your bank and credit card companies
- Report identity theft to the FTC
- File a report with your local police department
- Hire an attorney for house deeds
Looking for an attorney of house deeds?
If you think you are a victim of fraud, get in touch with David L Fleck. He served as a former deputy district attorney representing victims of fraud. He can handle complex financial crimes, including real estate, investment, business, insurance, and loan fraud and identity theft.