In Florida, identity thieves may forge deeds or transfer quitclaim deeds on vacation homes—or even targeted households—without the owner’s knowledge. With more high-value and absentee-owned homes, this risk is increasing, especially with forgery using AI-generated documents.
How to defend yourself:
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Purchase owner’s title insurance when closing;
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Enroll in Fraud Alert programs (Collier or Lee County) and monitor the title records for your property via your county clerk’s online portal;
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Visit the property and/or stay close with the neighbors to ensure that there isn’t an increase in activity at the property without your knowledge;
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Claim the property on Zillow and/or Redfin to be alerted of any new listings.