Seller Impersonation Fraud Attempts Surge, Doubling in Two Years — American Land Title Association (ALTA)

Event summary

59% of title firms reported at least one seller impersonation fraud attempt in 2025, up from 28% in 2023.
87% of respondents noted spoofed contact information as a common tactic, with 58% observing deepfake technology use.
One in four firms reporting fraud attempts also reported a paid claim, with half exceeding $100,000 in costs.
94% of firms use multiple fraud-detection tools, averaging 5.3 tools per firm.

The big picture

The surge in seller impersonation fraud reflects broader trends in cybercrime sophistication, with real estate transactions becoming prime targets. As criminals exploit digital vulnerabilities, title insurers must balance technological defenses with rigorous verification processes to maintain trust in property transactions. The financial stakes are high, with claims often exceeding six figures, underscoring the need for proactive industry-wide safeguards.

What we're watching

Fraud Evolution: How criminals will adapt tactics further as title companies enhance defenses.
Technology Arms Race: Whether deepfake detection tools can keep pace with fraudsters' advancements.
Industry Collaboration: The pace at which title firms standardize fraud-prevention protocols across the sector.