Maine Should Be Aware of This New ‘Sophisticated’ Scam

Our Pine Tree State is no stranger to scams, and this one has state police warning residents to stay alert.

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Scams, unfortunately, are always going to be around, preying on vulnerable people. There are always those who seek to take advantage of others for monetary gain. Scam artists are getting increasingly creative, and their schemes are becoming more advanced.

This latest scam is being called one of the most ‘sophisticated’ we've seen so far.

Recently, New York State Police have warned residents about a new scam targeting property owners, and Mainers should be aware of this too. The scam involves fraudsters tricking homeowners into losing their property.

Additionally, authorities believe this could be part of a larger scheme.

As detailed in a recent Facebook post, the New York State Police have uncovered a new scam involving identity theft and property fraud. An unknown suspect stole the identity of a property owner in Otsego County, forged a New Jersey driver’s license, and attempted to sell the property through a local realtor.

Troopers have learned of a new sophisticated scam and want the public to be aware. New York State Police in Oneonta recently discovered that an unknown suspect stole the identity of a property owner in Otsego County. That unknown suspect then forged a New Jersey Driver’s License and attempted to sell the property through a local relator. Luckily the suspect ran into a snafu because the deed had additional owners on it, and it raised some red flags and stalled the sale. That’s when the realtor became suspicious and learned that the actual owner had no clue that someone was trying to sell his property. Due to the diligence of the realtor, no sale was made and no money was lost. If you believe that you may be a victim or know of anyone that is part of this scam, contact your nearest law enforcement agency as this may be part of a much larger scam.

Fortunately, the sale was halted when the realtor noticed discrepancies due to additional owners on the deed, raising red flags and revealing that the actual owner was unaware of the attempted sale.

The police are urging the public to be cautious and report any suspicions of being a victim or knowing someone involved in this scam to their nearest law enforcement agency, as it could be part of a larger scheme.

This scam, which involves both fraud and identity theft, almost cost a New York resident their property, so we should be on the lookout for this one in our Pine Tree State.