Protecting Your Property From Fraud

The Coronavirus pandemic has left many people and businesses vulnerable to fraud, ranging from delivery scams, vaccine scams, as well as phishing and fake websites.  One area that is at a particularly high risk of fraud is the property market.

Increasing reports of property fraud have emerged involving a property being sold or mortgaged without the owner's knowledge, fraudulently using the owner's identity to do so.  This is increasingly likely where properties are unregistered or if the property is left vacant for a period of time.  Businesses should be particularly careful as the constant threat of lockdowns and home working risks business premises being left unoccupied for potentially significant periods of time, making it easier for fraudsters to take advantage.