How criminals attempt to sell property they do not own.
Vacant land can be targeted when an impersonator assembles public owner information, false identification and remote communication tools.
The FBI warned in June 2026 about identity thieves posing as owners of vacant property. An impersonator may use public parcel data, a newly created email address, a VoIP telephone number and fraudulent identification to approach real-estate professionals.
The attempted transaction can progress through contracts and title work before proceeds are directed to an account controlled by a co-conspirator.
This explainer is based on the FBI IC3’s June 16, 2026 public-service announcement about illegal property sales through parcel-owner impersonation. Read the original alert ↗
Warning signs
- The seller refuses to meet or communicate by video and relies entirely on email, text or VoIP.
- The seller pressures participants to close quickly or accept a below-market price.
- Knowledge of the property is inconsistent or ordinary ownership documents are missing.
- Sale proceeds are directed to an account under another name or in an unrelated location.
- Deeds or notarizations contain unusual or conflicting details.
Reducing the risk
Owners can check whether their county recorder or clerk offers alerts when documents are recorded in their name. Buyers and professionals can send verification correspondence to the tax-record address and independently confirm identity and payment instructions.
Suspected schemes should be reported to local authorities and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, with contact details, account information and transaction records preserved.