A surge in property theft complaints is raising red flags in New York. According to recent data, deed theft complaints in the state have skyrocketed by a staggering 240% between 2023 and 2025. Deed theft, also known as title theft, involves scammers manipulating property records to sell or refinance homes without the rightful owners' knowledge or consent. As the housing market continues to fluctuate, experts warn that this brazen crime is becoming increasingly prevalent, putting vulnerable homeowners at risk of financial devastation and even homelessness. With the alarming rise in complaints, authorities are under pressure to crack down on these sophisticated scams and protect property owners from falling prey.
Data shows 240% increase in N.Y. deed theft complaints from 2023 to 2025 CBS News
