The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is warning the public about an identity theft scheme wherein criminals impersonate the owners of vacant property parcels and attempt to illegally sell the property parcels without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
The scam typically occurs in three stages. First, criminals gather personal information from public records, data brokers, phishing scams, stolen accounts, or the dark web. They then create fake IDs, email accounts, and phone numbers to pose as legitimate property owners. Second, they contact real estate agents and title companies, claiming to be the owner and listing the vacant property for sale. To appear credible, they may provide forged documents, including fake deeds. Finally, once the property is sold, they direct the proceeds to a co-conspirator, often an attorney in another state.
Warning signs include sellers who communicate only through email, text, or internet-based phone numbers; refuse in-person meetings; pressure buyers to close quickly; offer unusually low prices; lack knowledge of the property; provide inconsistent information; or request suspicious wire transfers. Foreign-notarized deeds and unusual documentation are also red flags.
To protect yourself, enroll in property-record notification services if available, review title insurance coverage, and verify sellers by sending certified mail to the address listed on tax records. Victims should report incidents to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Click here to read the full release at the FBI.
