I Spent 24 Hours With Real Criminals

Summary

Matthew shares a detailed account of how he executed a real estate fraud scheme, easily taking over properties by falsifying documents and using fake IDs. He explains how the scam allowed him to sell or refinance homes without the rightful owners' knowledge. Despite being caught after a tip-off, Matthew expresses minimal guilt, citing his antisocial disorder, but regrets the personal losses, including his relationship with his son. He warns viewers about ongoing property fraud and advises homeowners to monitor their titles through monitoring services to protect against scams.

Takeaways

• 😀 Scammers can steal homes by forging property titles and transferring ownership to themselves.
• 😀 Fake documents like driver's licenses, passports, and credit cards are essential tools for executing the scam.
• 😀 Burner phones are used to impersonate employers and verify false information during fraud attempts.
• 😀 Selling or refinancing stolen homes is easier than it should be, thanks to fraudulent document creation.
• 😀 Scammers may attempt to flee when they sense the authorities are closing in, but tips from insiders can lead to their capture.
• 😀 Scammers often have antisocial traits, which lead them to feel little guilt for their actions, though they may regret lost family opportunities.
• 😀 The rise of property fraud makes it easier for scammers to pull off schemes today compared to the past.
• 😀 Regularly monitoring your property title through a service can help protect you from title theft and fraud.
• 😀 Some monitoring services go beyond notifications, offering assistance in correcting fraud or title damage.
• 😀 Even though property fraud is common, taking preventative steps can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to such scams.
• 😀 Scammers will exploit any weaknesses in the system, and it's crucial to stay informed and vigilant about property ownership security.

Q & A

What is the main scam described in the video?

The scam involves a fraudster taking ownership of a property by creating fake documents that transfer the title of the house to their name, then selling or refinancing the property.

How does the scammer gain control of the property?

The scammer creates fake documents that assign the property title to their name, potentially using forged signatures. They can also settle any existing mortgages by fabricating additional documents.

What tools does the scammer use to pull off this fraud?

The scammer uses fake driver's licenses, passports, credit cards, and burner phones to maintain anonymity. The burner phones allow the scammer to impersonate an employer for employment verification.

How does the scammer interact with the bank to verify details?

The scammer uses burner phones to impersonate an employer and provide fake verification when needed, such as confirming employment or bank account details.

Why did the scammer get caught?

The scammer was caught after their girlfriend confided in a friend, who reported the scammer to the Secret Service in exchange for a reward. The Secret Service tracked and arrested the scammer.

What does the scammer feel guilty about?

While the scammer doesn't express much guilt about committing fraud, they regret losing the opportunity to have a relationship with their son and not being there for their parents in their old age.

How has technology made scams like this easier?

Technology has made the scam easier to pull off by enabling easy access to fake documents and impersonation tools, along with quicker methods of communication and verification.

What can property owners do to prevent falling victim to title fraud?

Property owners can use title monitoring services, which track changes to property titles and alert owners about unauthorized changes. Some services also help correct fraud if it occurs.

What are title monitoring services, and how do they help?

Title monitoring services track any changes to a property’s title and notify the owner if a fraudulent change occurs. These services may also assist in rectifying any fraud or damage caused by the scam.

Why is title fraud a growing concern?

Title fraud is growing because it is easier than ever to fabricate documents and manipulate public records. With the rise of digital tools and data, fraudsters can quickly and anonymously take control of properties.