SPRINGFIELD – Property owners will be alerted when a deed or similar document has been filed on their property under a new law spearheaded by State Senate Doris Turner in an effort to combat deed fraud.
“It’s important that we ensure people’s hard-earned property is protected from common scam tactics and deception,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Every homeowner worked hard to own a property in their name. They shouldn’t have to worry about being a victim of deed fraud.”
Senate Bill 1523 requires county recorders to establish a system for reviewing suspected deed fraud and a fraud alert system to notify property owners when a deed or other document has been filed for their property. The new law also gives property owners a legal pathway to taking action against any person who knowingly files a fraudulent deed or property document.
Deed fraud applies to a variety of crimes in which an individual tries to profit through various schemes involving real estate. Commonly this involves impersonating the actual owner and recording fake or forged documents to transfer a property. Once the false transfer is made, the individual can then sell the home, take out a mortgage on it, or even rent it out to tenants to turn a profit. These crimes result in legal costs, reduction in equity or property value or even property loss.
Turner brought the legislation forward in response to a constituent, who lives in Chatham and owns property in Decatur, who was a victim of false deed transfer. According to the Federal Trade Commission, fraud losses in 2023 were over $10 billion, with nearly $2.7 billion coming from impostor scams.
“It’s my job as a senator to be on the lookout for my constituents, especially when it comes to this kind of financial deception,” said Turner. “As always, I encourage anyone in the 48th District to reach out to my office if you need help.”
Senate Bill 1523 takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.
