What is deed theft and how can I protect myself?

Deed theft (also called home title fraud) occurs when a criminal forges documents to transfer ownership of your property into their name without your knowledge. Once the deed is fraudulently transferred, the criminal may take out loans against the property or even sell it. Signs include unexpected notices about your property, unfamiliar names on tax bills, or inability to make online mortgage payments. Protect yourself by regularly monitoring your property records at the county recorder's office, signing up for property alert services (offered free in many counties), never ignoring mail about your property, and ensuring your home title is in your name on all documents. Home title lock insurance offers additional protection for a monthly fee.