Protecting More Than Just Your Home: Simple Steps Against Identity Theft and Title Fraud

At The Home Watch Guy, I talk a lot about protecting your property while you’re away. But real peace of mind goes beyond locked doors and checked windows—it also includes protecting your identity and your home’s title from fraud.

Identity theft and property title fraud are on the rise, and seasonal homeowners are especially vulnerable. Mail piles up, property records go unnoticed, and small warning signs can slip through the cracks. The good news? There are simple, free steps you can take right now to safeguard yourself and your home.

FBI Warns of Rising Title Fraud in Maine

Editor’s note: The following statistics and quotes are drawn from a Weekly Sentinel article published September 5, 2025.

Billions Lost Nationwide, Millions in Maine

The Weekly Sentinel reported on an FBI alert about a surge in quit claim deed fraud — also known as home title theft — across New England, including here in Maine. Criminals forge documents to record fraudulent property transfers, allowing them to sell a home, rent it out, or even take out a mortgage — often without the real owner finding out until it’s too late.

According to the FBI:

• From 2019 through 2023, more than 58,000 real estate fraud complaints were filed nationwide, with losses topping $1.3 billion.

• In New England, 2,301 victims reported losses of over $61.5 million.

• In Maine alone, 262 victims lost more than $6.2 million.

“Roots Pulled Out From Under Them”

FBI Special Agent Jodi Cohen warned that victims “are having their roots literally pulled out from under them and are being left with no place to call home,” describing the emotional and financial toll as “shock, anger, and even embarrassment.”

FBI Advice for Homeowners

The FBI advises property owners to:

• Monitor online property records and set up alerts with county clerks’ offices when available.

• Investigate unusual changes such as missing tax bills or unexplained utility spikes.

• Report suspected deed fraud immediately through the Internet Crime Complaint Center

Source: “FBI Warns of Quit Claim Deed Fraud Fueled by Online Scams,” The Weekly Sentinel, September 5, 2025.

Recently, federal officials issued a warning that shows just how serious this threat has become in Maine and across New England..

This warning reinforces why we created our homeowner checklist — and why it’s so important for seasonal and year-round residents to stay alert.

Stop Unwanted Calls and Mail

- National Do Not Call Registry : Cuts down on telemarketing calls.

- OptOutPrescreen : Stops unsolicited credit and insurance offers.

- DMAchoice ): Helps reduce junk mail that could end up in an unattended mailbox.

Guard Against Property Title Fraud

- York County Fraud Alert : A free service that notifies you if any documents are recorded in your name with the county registry. It’s one of the best defenses against title fraud.

Strengthen Digital Security

- Use two-factor authentication on email and bank accounts.

- Review bank and card statements often.

- Rely on strong, unique passwords (a password manager helps).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is property title fraud?

Property title fraud happens when someone tries to illegally transfer ownership of your home or take out loans against it by filing fake documents with the county registry. It’s rare, but it can cause big headaches if it goes unnoticed. That’s why services like the York County Fraud Alert are so valuable—they notify you if anything is recorded in your name.

How can I protect myself from identity theft?

Start with the free tools available to everyone: register your phone number on the Do Not Call Registry, opt out of pre-screened credit offers at OptOutPrescreen, and reduce junk mail through DMAchoice. Add a credit freeze with the four bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion, and Innovis) so no one can open new accounts in your name.

Is home title lock insurance necessary?

Many companies advertise “title lock” services, but in most cases you don’t need to pay for them. What really matters is being notified quickly if documents are filed in your name. In York County, that’s free with the Fraud Alert Service. Pair that with your homeowner’s title insurance policy and you’re already well covered.

Why are seasonal homeowners more at risk?

When a home is left vacant for months at a time, small warning signs—like unusual mail, phone calls, or notices from the county—can be missed. Fraudsters know this, which makes seasonal properties a tempting target. That’s where The Home Watch Guy comes in: I keep eyes on your property while you’re away, and now I’m sharing these extra steps to help protect your identity too.

Final Thought

Protecting your identity and your title is just another layer of home watch—one that happens behind the scenes. Take advantage of these free tools, and you’ll enjoy the same peace of mind we deliver when we watch over your property in Southern Maine.

Download this free checklist to help protect your identity and home title with trusted resources.