National news coverage continues, as consumers still at great risk of fraud – even if they aren’t involved in a property transaction.

On today’s (9th May 2017) Rip Off Britain, the team uncover the shocking truths surrounding identity fraud. They specifically look into the case covered by Today’s Conveyancer regarding Mr Minh To.

This case differs from many property fraud incidents, as To wasn’t even selling his property at the time. It was his daughter, Fiona who noticed the advert on Rightmove and being an estate agent herself, was shocked this could even happen.

Fraudsters were able to intercept Mr To’s post by accessing the letter box at the property and managed to obtain sensitive information, allowing them to steal the property owner’s identity. The criminals then transferred the property into their name, which allowed them to then sell the property that Mr To was still living in at the time.

“It does still shock me and I just hope it doesn’t happen to other people and other people don’t have to go through this,” said the victim’s daughter, Fiona on this latest Rip Off Britain episode.

Having occurred in 2012, the impact this case has had on the lives of the victim and his family is still very much at the forefront of their lives. This highlights the continued need for conveyancers and property professionals to educate their clients on fraud risks and ensure they have strict policies in place to help mitigate any risks.

Taken from Today’s Conveyancer and written by Heather Cameron