Many homeowners have seen commercials promoting “home title lock” services. These ads often rely on worst-case scenarios, warning that someone could “steal your home” without your knowledge. They can make title fraud seem common, imminent and easy to carry out.

The messaging can be alarming, and it often blurs the facts. Understanding what title fraud is and what helps protect you can prevent unnecessary worry and expense.

WHAT TITLE LOCK DOES AND DOESN’T DO

First, “title lock insurance” is not the same as the title insurance purchased when you buy a home. Title insurance protects against past ownership issues, such as undisclosed liens or claims. “Title lock” is not insurance. It is a monitoring service that alerts you after a change has already been made to your deed. It does not prevent fraud.

WHAT IS TITLE FRAUD?

Title fraud, sometimes called home title theft, occurs when a criminal transfers ownership of your property into their name without your knowledge. It’s a form of identity theft. While considered rare, it can be costly and time-consuming to resolve, often requiring legal action to clear fraudulent claims from a title.

Criminals typically begin by stealing personal information through phishing emails, malware or data breaches. With that information, they may create forged documents, such as fake deeds, to make it appear they own your property.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK?

Properties and homeowners at higher risk include vacant properties, homes without mortgages, absentee landlords, recent identity theft victims and older adults who may not regularly monitor property records.

If a criminal successfully transfers your property title, they may try to sell the home, take out loans using the property as collateral or rent it out. Victims can face serious financial and legal challenges, including credit problems and costly lawsuits.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

To help protect yourself, periodically check your property records through your local land records office. 

Mesa County also offers Property Fraud Alert, a free system that monitors property records and notifies owners of possible fraudulent activity. 

Register at MesaCounty.us/departments-and-services/clerk-and-recorder/recording/fraud-alert-land-records

Protect your personal information and be cautious about sharing it by phone, email or online. Review your credit reports regularly to spot unusual activity.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, home title lock services are not necessary and do not provide adequate protection against title fraud. Free county alert systems, regular monitoring of property records and protecting personal information are more effective ways to safeguard your property.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT FRAUD

If you suspect you are a victim of title fraud, immediately contact your local Clerk and Recorder’s Office, your lender and local law enforcement.

In Colorado, you can learn more about title fraud through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies at DRE.Colorado.gov/consumers/scams-and-fraud/real-estate-title-fraud

The Grand Junction Police Department does not recommend or endorse home title lock services. Homeowners should research their options and decide what best fits their needs. 

REPORT SCAMS TO LOCAL AUTHORITIES

If you are targeted or fall victim to a scam, contact the Grand Junction Police Department at 970-549-5057,  Montrose Police at 970-249-9110 or Delta Police at 970-874-7676.