Quick Summary
Officials in New York report a sharp increase in deed fraud complaints as criminals use forged documents and stolen identities to alter property ownership records. Authorities say the rise reflects both growing awareness and a broader trend of fraudulent filings impacting homeowners across the state.
In New York, complaints of deed theft have increased dramatically, with reports to the Attorney General’s Office rising more than 240% over a two-year period. The cases often involve forged documents and stolen identities used to transfer ownership of homes without the rightful owner’s knowledge. Prosecutors say the rise is partly due to increased awareness, but also reflects a growing number of fraudulent property filings affecting homeowners across the state.
One case highlights how complex these situations can become. A homeowner who purchased a property in Queens says he was later locked out while another individual claimed ownership through disputed paperwork. Investigators are reviewing records that show multiple ownership changes over time, raising questions about how the property was transferred. Authorities say these cases can involve delayed filings, identity misuse, and documents that appear legitimate when recorded. Officials also note that resolving deed fraud can require lengthy legal action, even when there is strong evidence that the transfer was not authorized.
This story was first posted on CBS News New York
