06/16/2026
🚨 PROPERTY OWNERS: BE AWARE OF DEED FRAUD 🚨
Did you know that criminals are increasingly targeting vacant land, rental properties, and even family-owned property through a scheme known as **Property Owner Impersonation Fraud**?
In these cases, scammers pose as the legitimate property owner and attempt to sell real estate they do not own. By the time the true owner discovers what has happened, significant financial and legal complications may already exist.
The United States Secret Service has identified deed fraud and seller impersonation as a growing threat and has partnered with local law enforcement agencies to help educate property owners, real estate professionals, and closing attorneys about how to recognize and prevent these crimes.
✅ Protect Yourself:
• Sign up for property fraud alerts through your county Register of Deeds office if available.
• Monitor online real estate sites for unauthorized listings of your property.
• Let trusted neighbors know if your property is not for sale.
• Consider posting a "Not For Sale" sign on vacant property.
• Immediately investigate any unexpected calls from real estate agents, attorneys, or Register of Deeds personnel regarding your property.
Warning signs for real estate professionals and closing attorneys include sellers who:
• Communicate only by email and refuse phone or video calls.
• Demand a quick cash sale at a below-market price.
• Claim to be out of the country and unavailable.
• Own vacant land, rental property, or property without a mortgage.
If you believe you may be the victim of deed fraud or property owner impersonation, contact the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office immediately. Early reporting can be critical in preventing the fraudulent transfer or sale of property.
📞 Fairfield County Sheriff's Office
803-635-4141
Protect your property. Stay informed. Report suspicious activity.
