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More states add deed theft protections as real estate fraud rises
Reported real estate fraud losses totaled $275.1 million in 2025, and deed theft laws rose to 12 states from seven since the protections began expanding.
More states are adopting deed theft protections as real estate fraud reports increase, with Arizona, Maryland, and Alabama enacting new safeguards.
HousingWire reports that the number of states with deed theft laws has grown to 12, up from seven, while 29 states still lack statutes. The outlet also cited timing, saying new Alabama and Maryland measures took effect Oct. 1, and Arizona’s law took effect Sept. 12.
HousingWire said deed theft protections are aimed at reducing fraud that typically occurs through unauthorized filings, and noted that tools available today generally respond after fraud occurs. EquityProtect urged verified owner approval upfront, pointing to its Property Protection Scorecard.
HousingWire also highlighted underlying fraud trends, citing FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center data showing 12,368 real estate fraud complaints in 2025 and $275.1 million in reported losses, up from $173.6 million in 2024. The outlet added that bills in Pennsylvania and South Carolina stalled during the current legislative cycle.