Watch Out for These Top 4 Deed & Title Fraud Warnings

Deed Fraud Is Growing in Pennsylvania

In April 2025, the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors warned consumers about a sharp rise in deed and title fraud. The title fraud warnings included criminals who forged signatures and filed fake property documents with county offices to steal homes. These schemes target both homeowners and buyers. If you own property in Waynesboro, Chambersburg, or anywhere in Pennsylvania, your home is at risk if you don’t stay alert.

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report (2024), real estate and rental fraud caused more than $350 million in losses nationwide. Title and deed fraud accounted for a growing share of those cases.

How Deed and Title Fraud Works

Deed fraud, also known as title fraud, happens when someone transfers ownership of a title or deed to a property illegally where the owner has no knowledge of the transfer.

Here’s how criminals pull it off:

1. Forged Signatures: Fraudsters create fake deeds and claim ownership of your property.

2. False Filings: They record forged documents with county recorders.

3. Unauthorized Transfers: Homes are “sold” without the true owner’s knowledge.

4. Hidden Liens: Fake lenders place liens on properties, making it harder for legitimate owners to refinance or sell.

The PA Association of Realtors explained: “Fraudsters exploit public filing systems to make ownership look legitimate. Without proactive monitoring, victims often don’t know until it’s too late.” (Source: PR Newswire)

Protecting Yourself with Title Insurance and Local Safeguards

Title insurance provides critical protection, but it does not cover everything. Here’s what you need to know:

• What’s Covered: Past liens, undisclosed heirs, unpaid taxes, or prior ownership disputes discovered after closing.

• What’s Not Covered: Future fraud after you buy the property, escrow theft, or cases where a forged deed is filed later.

This makes it essential to combine title insurance with preventive steps:

1. Sign up for property fraud alerts offered by many Pennsylvania counties.

2. Regularly check the recorder’s office for filings against your property.

3. Work only with trusted local settlement companies

4. Ask direct questions about escrow handling and fraud prevention.

5. One more way to protect against deed fraud is by staying aware of local scams and monitoring your property records.

At Buchanan Settlement Services, our attorney-supported closings in Waynesboro and Chambersburg give you peace of mind. We explain your title insurance coverage clearly and help you take extra steps to protect your home long after closing.

Take Control of Your Property Security

Deed/Title fraud isn’t just a big-city problem. It happens in small towns across Pennsylvania, too. Don’t assume your property is safe.

Here’s what you can do today:

1. Call Buchanan Settlement Services at (717) 762-1415 for guidance on title insurance in Pennsylvania.

2. Ask about title and lien searches before you close.

3. Register for fraud alert services in your county.

4. Review your deed regularly to confirm ownership records remain accurate.

Agents should educate clients about deed and title fraud, which has been on the rise across Pennsylvania. Contact us online to schedule a consultation in Waynesboro or Chambersburg.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I know if someone filed a fake deed on my home?

Check with your county recorder’s office or sign up for property fraud alerts.

Q2: Does title insurance cover deed fraud after I buy?

No. The standard owner’s title insurance policy protects against past issues, not fraud that occurs after purchase. But, check to see if you are eligible to purchase the enhanced owner’s title insurance policy which can offer certain protections against deed fraud.

Q3: What should I do if I suspect deed fraud?

Report it to your county recorder, local police, and an attorney immediately.

Q4: Can anyone forge my signature and take my house?

Yes, criminals can file fraudulent documents. That’s why monitoring and trusted settlement partners matter.

Q5: How does Buchanan Settlement Services help prevent fraud?

We conduct full title searches, use secure escrow practices, and educate clients about fraud protection.

Q6: Is deed fraud common in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Reports have increased, leading the PA Association of Realtors to issue a statewide warning in 2025.

📞 Call (717) 762-1415 to schedule a secure consultation

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