Real estate fraud

Real estate fraud may cause you large financial losses. If you’re a victim of real estate fraud you may find out that you no longer own your home. You may also notice on your credit report that additional mortgages have been taken out in your name.

How real estate fraud happens

There are two main types of real estate fraud that may result in financial loss: title fraud and foreclosure fraud.

Title fraud 

Title fraud happens when fraudsters steal the title to your home. They sell your home or apply for a new mortgage against it. Title fraud usually starts with identity theft, which may happen if someone steals your personal information.

Learn more about identity theft and fraud.

Foreclosure fraud 

Foreclosure fraud usually happens when you're having problems making your mortgage payments. Fraudsters may try to trick you into transferring them your property title in exchange for a loan. Fraudsters usually keep the payments you make and possess the title to your home. They may resell or refinance your house.

Mortgage fraud

Mortgage fraud, also called application fraud, happens when you provide false information on a mortgage application. Someone else may try to falsify your documents or encourage you to do so. When that happens, you may be held responsible for committing mortgage fraud. It may also impact your ability to obtain credit or a mortgage in the future. 

Learn more about mortgage fraud and how to protect yourself.

Protect yourself from real estate fraud

To help protect yourself against real estate fraud:

If you're a victim of real estate fraud

If you think you’re a victim of real estate fraud:

Report the fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre operates through a partnership of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Competition Bureau Canada. It’s Canada's central repository for information about fraud.

Contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

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