If you’re behind on mortgage payments, you don’t have to handle it alone—there are resources to help you get back on track. But be aware that scammers may target homeowners in financial distress, hoping to take advantage of their situation to defraud them out of money and property.
Read on to find out how to spot these fraudsters and how to find legitimate assistance.
First Step: Contact Your Lender
Before trusting outside offers, talk to the people who know your loan best. Contact a Newrez loss mitigation specialist as early as possible, as soon as you realize you’re struggling to make your mortgage payments. We offer several payment plans to help you get back on track. Our team wants to help you avoid the potential negative outcomes of falling behind on your payments, including damage to your credit and the foreclosure of your home.
Red Flags of Foreclosure Scams
Scammers often use urgency to pressure people into making snap decisions, and sometimes lure homeowners in with false promises.
Common Scam Tactics
- Demanding upfront fees before you receive services, which is illegal
- Making false guarantees of stopping foreclosures or loan modifications
- Pressuring homeowners to sign paperwork they don’t understand—sometimes involves signing away a home
- Suggesting homeowners stop paying their mortgage
- Asking for payment via wire transfer, cashier’s check or mobile apps—often makes money difficult to recover
- Asking for a transfer of a deed
- Promising a “forensic audit”
- Claiming to work with government programs—genuine government help is typically free and usually isn’t advertised by way of flashy mailers
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and walk away.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
- Do not respond or send money
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
Help Is Available
Falling behind on mortgage payments can be distressing—but remember that scammers prey on emotions and vulnerabilities. Don’t fall for the grifters offering you too-good-to-be-true promises. Remember to call us first, and we’ll do everything we can to help you get back on track.
To contact a customer service agent, sign in to your online account, click “Account Details” to access your dashboard, and then click “Chat Online” on the right side of the screen to talk with one of our team members. They’re available M-F 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. You can also call 866-317-2347.