WARSAW, Ind. (WOWO): Kosciusko County officials say they are responding to a rise in home title theft cases as the crime becomes more common across the country. Home title theft happens when someone illegally transfers ownership of a property without the owner’s knowledge, often using forged docum ents or false identification. According to the National Association of Realtors, 63% of real estate professionals nationwide report seeing title fraud in their markets. County Recorder Deb Wright said her office has seen a significant increase in suspected cases over the past two years. She said scammers often target properties where the owner does not live on site, sometimes contacting realtors while posing as the property owner and requesting a sale. Experts say properties owned free and clear, including second homes, investment properties and farmland, face the highest risk. To address the issue, Kosciusko County has partnered with EquityProtect to offer free online risk assessment tools for residents. According to the company, more than half of properties in the county are considered medium-high to high risk for title fraud. Residents can enter their address or parcel number to review their risk level. County officials say anyone who notices suspicious activity involving their property should contact the recorder’s office. The post Home title fraud concerns grow in Kosciusko County appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less