Crime & Safety
Sheriff Warns This 'Real Estate' Scam Is On The Rise Across The Hudson Valley
The Orange County Sheriff's Office is telling residents not to fall for the scheme that could see the deed to your home stolen.
ORANGE COUNTY, NY — The Orange County Sheriff's Office is warning residents in Orange County and nearby areas about the latest scam making its rounds in the region.
In the new scam, the perpetrators are posing as property owners and trying to sell homes or land through realtors, according to the sheriff's office. Through the use of false documents and fake identification, they claim to be the rightful owner of the property.
The sheriff's office asks that residents use caution when buying or selling property.
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If something seems unusual or "too good to be true," the sheriff's office advises taking the extra steps to verify ownership and documents. Realtors and attorneys are urged to remain vigilant.
The sheriff's office says to watch out for scammers who:
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- Try to sell quickly.
- Say they are out of the area and cannot meet in person.
- Provide fraudulent paperwork to support their scheme, including drivers licenses.
If you believe you may have been targeted by this type of real estate scam, contact your local law enforcement or the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
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