Experts Warn of Rising Deed Fraud Targeting Vacation Properties and Rentals

The City Council of Indianapolis held a meeting on July 28, 2025, featuring discussions on the rising concerns of title fraud in the digital age. Special guests Elizabeth Wysong Berg, Esq., and Regina Pimentel, Lake County Recorder, addressed the growing threat of scams related to online transactions and digital documents.

Berg highlighted that while impersonation and property theft are not new issues, the methods have evolved. She explained that overseas actors are increasingly involved in what is termed "deed fraud" or "seller fraud." These groups impersonate actual property owners, often using fraudulent notarization to illegally transfer property titles. This type of fraud is particularly targeting vacation properties and rentals, which can leave owners vulnerable.

To combat these fraudulent activities, Berg emphasized the importance of controlling notarization processes and encouraged property owners to utilize available tools for protection. She noted that many counties in Indiana, specifically 90 out of 92, offer property fraud alerts through local recorder's offices. These alerts are free and serve as a crucial resource for property owners to monitor any unauthorized recordings against their properties.

The discussion underscored the need for increased awareness and proactive measures among property owners, particularly those with vacation homes or rental properties, to safeguard their assets against emerging fraud tactics. The meeting concluded with a call for community engagement in utilizing these protective tools to prevent potential scams.