Vacant Land Scams & Seller Impersonation

Scammers are impersonating property owners—often of vacant or unoccupied land—and fraudulently listing or selling the property without the actual owner's knowledge or consent. They look for:

• Vacant lots/tracts
• Out-of-state owners
• Unmonitored or inherited land
• No mortgage or liens

1. Scammer identifies a vacant or unencumbered property.
2. They pose as the property owner using fake IDs, forged documents, or spoofed email addresses.
3. They list the property below market value to encourage a quick sale.
4. A buyer or agent contacts them, and they insist on a quick, cash-only closing.
5. The scammer uses remote notarization and refuses to meet in person.

• Seller is out of state and refuses in-person or video meetings. There’s often a tragic story, death, cancer etc.
• Seller insists on a rush closing.
• Property is listed well below market value.
• Seller communicates only by email or text. Email will be a version of the owner’s name @outlook.
• Title documents are notarized remotely or look suspicious.
• Seller wants to use their own unfamiliar notary or closing agent.

• For Property Owners:
  • Monitor your county records for unauthorized filings. Oklahoma County offers a Lien Alert. Sign up HERE!
  • Use fraud alert services offered by your county clerk (where available).
  • Post “No Trespassing” or “Not for Sale” signs on vacant land.
• For Real Estate Professionals:
  • Verify seller identity by sending certified mail to the tax address.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited sellers who want to list land quickly.
  • Alert your broker and title company if you see red flags.
  • Educate clients about these scams, especially landowners.

• Do not proceed with the transaction.
• Contact your local law enforcement.
• Notify the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit.