Free Alerts Available in Miami-Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties
Imagine discovering that someone has stolen your property—on paper—and is trying to sell it or take out a mortgage in your name. It sounds like a movie plot, but it’s a very real and growing threat called title fraud (also known as deed fraud), and it’s happening right here in South Florida.
Quick Read
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Title fraud happens when scammers file fake deeds to steal property.
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Vacant and mortgage-free homes are most at risk.
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Free alerts are available in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach to help protect you.
What Is Title Fraud?
Title fraud happens when criminals illegally transfer ownership of a property by filing forged documents—usually a deed—with the county recorder’s office. This gives the appearance that they now legally own the property. Once this fraudulent deed is on record, the scammer might:
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Try to sell the home to an unsuspecting buyer
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Take out a mortgage or line of credit against the property
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Rent out the property or, in rare cases, even move in
These criminals often target properties that are:
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Vacant or second homes
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Owned free and clear (no mortgage, no regular lender oversight)
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Owned by elderly individuals or out-of-state owners
How Can You Tell If You’re at Risk?
You might be a victim of title fraud if:
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You stop receiving property tax bills
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You notice mail or utility services suddenly stopped
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You see a For Sale sign or find strangers on your property unexpectedly
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You receive notices for a mortgage or loan you never applied for
How to Protect Yourself in South Florida
The good news is that all three major counties in South Florida—Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach—offer free property fraud alert systems to help you catch suspicious activity early.
Miami-Dade County: Property Fraud Alert
Miami-Dade offers a Property Fraud Alert system through the Clerk of the Court and Comptroller. When you sign up, you’ll get email notifications any time a document with your registered name is recorded in the county’s Official Records. Sign up here
Broward County: Owner Alert System
The Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office provides a tool called Owner Alert. This free service sends a notification when a document is recorded that appears to change the ownership of your property. It’s quick to set up and only takes an email address and your Property ID (found on the tax record). Sign up here
Palm Beach County: Property Fraud Alert
The Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller offers a Property Fraud Alert service that notifies you by email if a document is recorded with your name, address, or parcel number. Sign up here
Tips to Maximize Protection
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Register multiple versions of your name (e.g., with and without a middle initial)
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Monitor every property you own, including vacant lots, rentals, or vacation homes
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If you receive an alert, act quickly by reviewing the recorded document and contacting your county clerk or legal advisor if needed
Title fraud is silent but serious. By taking just a few minutes to register for these alerts, you’ll have an added layer of protection—and peace of mind. Whether you live in your home full-time or only visit seasonally, it’s worth staying one step ahead of fraudsters.
If you have questions about real estate safety, investment properties, or need help navigating the South Florida luxury real estate market, we’re always here to help.
