The single largest asset for most older Americans is their home. This is important because at the root of all vulnerability is one thing… Lack of money.
With the advent of the internet and
evolving information technology, there is a new crime taking place, which can sell your property without your knowledge. This type of crime has several names and is often referred to as “Deed Fraud,” “Quit Claim Deed Fraud”, “Home Title Theft,” The Ohio State University Extension Office wrote about it on January 22, 2026, in a blog entitled, What is “deed fraud” and how can landowners protect themselves from it? https://farmoffice.osu.edu/blog/deed-fraud In simple terms, this means scammers are impersonating land owners.
On the website OhioRealtors.org, it reports deed fraud is on the rise and both consumers and realtors are at risk. It goes on to explain, “They use forged documents, fake identification to attempt to illegally transfer property titles and profit from the fraudulent sale.” (https://www.ohiorealtors.org/blog/2267/deed-fraud-is-on-the-rise/) In a WABI newsclip, https://www.wabi.tv/2025/04/02/deed-theft-is-rise-fbi-says-heres-how-protect-yourself/ it is reported that the Boston bureau of the FBI stated Quit Claim Deed Fraud is on the rise. This is when scammers illegally transfer ownership of your land without your knowledge or consent. According to the reporting this appears to be occurring with vacant land or homes. In some cases, vacant homes are rented out by the scammers.
To protect yourself from this crime, the FBI recommends property owners do the following:
- Continually monitor online property records
- Set up online search alerts for your property
- Drive by and check on the property
- Report suspicious activity
- Take action if you stop receiving tax bills
(Note: Serving Our Seniors is a geriatric social service whose mission is to help residents, ages 60+, maintain their ability to function independently and maintain their health as they grow older in Erie County, Ohio. Serving Our Seniors is funded by the Erie County Senior Services Tax Levy.)
Sue Daugherty Director, Serving Our Seniors
Director, Serving Our Seniors 310 E. Boalt Street. #A Sandusky, OH 44870
Getting Started – the Problem Solving Program
The Problem Solving Program is often the first call for help to access our other services. We are available by phone and for home visits to help Erie County older adults with questions, problems, or concerns.
If we do not have the answer, we will find the person who does. This is our most widely-used service and it is free to any qualifying Erie County older adult.
Call 419-624-1856 for help. We are here to help.
