Hillsborough County is experiencing a concerning rise in property fraud and scams, with criminals targeting homeowners through sophisticated paperwork schemes. Authorities are urging residents to utilize a free fraud alert system to protect their properties from title theft and fraudulent deed filings.
Property Fraud: A Growing Threat
Property fraud, often described as a "paperwork crime," involves criminals using forged documents like quitclaim deeds to transfer property ownership without the owner’s knowledge. These schemes can be executed with minimal cost, making them an attractive avenue for fraudsters. The Hillsborough County Clerk of Court and Comptroller emphasizes that these crimes can be committed with just a few forged signatures and a notary seal, making it difficult to detect fraudulent activity at the point of filing.
How Scammers Operate
Scammers exploit the system by filing fraudulent quitclaim deeds, which transfer property ownership. In some cases, they forge signatures of property owners, including those who are deceased. The ease with which these documents can be processed, requiring only a notary, a driver’s license, and two signatures with addresses, allows criminals to attempt to legitimize their fraudulent claims. Once a fraudulent deed is filed, scammers may attempt to sell the property or take out loans against it, leaving the rightful owner in a devastating situation.
The Fraud Alert System: A Crucial Defense
To combat this growing problem, Hillsborough County offers a free Property Fraud Alert System. Homeowners can register their properties, and the system will notify them within 48 hours if any document is filed against their property. This proactive measure has already proven effective in catching fraudulent activities, as seen in cases where homeowners were alerted to suspicious filings and law enforcement was subsequently involved. Despite its availability, only a fraction of homes in the county are registered, highlighting the need for increased awareness and participation.
Recent Arrests and Legal Consequences
Authorities have made arrests in connection with these property fraud schemes. In one notable case, a married couple was arrested for allegedly forging deeds to steal properties. The female suspect faces severe penalties, potentially over 275 years in prison, for charges including fraudulent use of personal information and identity theft, which carry mandatory minimum sentences. The couple is accused of filing quitclaim deeds on multiple properties, including one owned by the husband’s ex-father-in-law and another belonging to a couple whose home was under renovation.
Key Takeaways
- Property fraud is on the rise in Hillsborough County, often involving forged quitclaim deeds.
- Scammers can exploit the system with minimal resources, making detection difficult.
- The Hillsborough County Clerk of Court offers a free Property Fraud Alert System to notify homeowners of suspicious filings.
- Participation in the alert system is crucial for protecting property rights.
- Severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, await those convicted of property fraud.
Protecting Yourself
Experts advise homeowners to be vigilant and register for the free Property Fraud Alert System. It is a simple process that can prevent significant financial loss and emotional distress. By staying informed and utilizing available protective measures, residents can better safeguard their homes against these increasingly common scams.
Sources
- Hillsborough County homeowners can sign up for property fraud alerts, WFLA.
- Florida couple allegedly swiped homes using shockingly easy scam that costs less than $1, New York Post.
- Hillsborough County property fraud alert system helped catch married couple accused of stealing home, FOX 13 Tampa Bay.
- Experts say Tampa Bay’s real-estate market is ripe for scammers, WUSF.