Title deed fraud remains one of the most distressing crimes in the property sector — victims can lose their homes or investments without warning. The good news? The Land Registry has taken serious steps in recent years to tighten security and improve fraud prevention.
From identity checks to digital alerts, and improved collaboration with legal and professional bodies, there’s no denying that progress has been made. The Property Alert Service is a great example — free to sign up and crucial for spotting suspicious activity early.
Yet despite these improvements, fraudsters continue to exploit vulnerabilities — especially with absentee owners, unregistered land, or digitally unprepared solicitors.
So where do we stand?
✅ Progress: Enhanced identity checks, fraud prevention policies, and case investigations.
⚠️ Gaps: Public awareness remains low, and registration processes — especially for older or inherited properties — can still be exploited.
Property professionals must stay vigilant, and property owners should ensure their assets are registered, up to date, and monitored.
🔍 It’s not just about protecting land. It’s about safeguarding trust in the system that underpins it.
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