Deed Fraud Information and Resources
Deed Fraud is a serious crime that occurs when a con artist files a phony deed with the City, which falsely states that your property has been transferred to someone else.
The con artist will often then try to sell your property to an unsuspecting buyer or take out a mortgage against your property.
Tips to Avoid Deed Fraud
- Make sure the New York City Department of Finance has the correct mailing address for you or the person who should receive notices about your property.
- Register for the New York City Department of Finance’s Recorded Document Notification Program by visiting the Automated City Register Information System (ACRIS) so that you can receive an alert when a deed, deed-related document, mortgage, or mortgage-related document has been recorded against your property.
- Check the City Register’s records periodically to ensure that no deeds or mortgages have been recorded on your property without your consent.
- Contact the Department of Finance if you stop receiving property tax bills and the Department of Environmental Protection if you stop receiving water bills.
Educational Videos
Additional Information
Report Deed Fraud
- Brooklyn DA’s Action Center
(718) 250-2340
*Phone lines are open between 9:00AM and 5:00PM - Department of Finance Complaint Form
- NYC Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Criminal Investigation
(718) 707-2100 - New York State Office of the Attorney General
(800) 771-7755