GREENSBORO, N.C. — It's happening all across the nation, scammers or sometimes family members are transferring the deeds of homes to themselves without the homeowner knowing. Homeowners who have paid off their mortgages and are single owners are most at risk.
"The Register of Deeds cannot fix fraudulent deeds and cannot take them off the public record, but we can help you find out if transactions involving your name and property have occurred quickly through a fraud alert so that you can protect your property," said Jeff Thigpen, Guilford County Register of Deeds.
A fraud alert is free. If there are inquiries with your name or property, you will be alerted by email so that you can take quick action. You should go online to your county's Register of Deeds office.
What is deed/property fraud?
•When interests in real estate are transferred without the knowledge or consent of the property owner(s)
•Forged documents
•False signatures and documents
•Coercion may be involved
If you have been a victim of fraudulent activity:
Victims should immediately gather and collect all information, documents, and other evidence and report the forged and/or fraudulent deed to:
1. Guilford County Sheriff's Office and/or the Greensboro or High Point Police Departments (if applicable)
2. Guilford County District Attorney’s office
3. Consult a Real Estate Attorney
4. Guilford County Register of Deeds
For additional information, please contact the Guilford County Register of Deeds Office at 336-641-7556; go to www.guilforddeeds.com
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