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Victims
Seniors are a prime target for scammers. Predators know that many of them are alone and with very little resources to fight back. Most victims have health issues and many keep the abuses secret.
Low income families do not have the resources to hire attorneys, they are too busy working two jobs and trying to raise their families, so they become another prime target of foreclosure relief fraud
Financial criminals love to go after homeowners who speak little or no english. They know that the language barrier will prevent the victims from understand how they are being defrauded. So crimes go on unreported.
Last Wednesday, ACCE, Home Defenders League and concerned citizens did something that needs to be done. They banded together, took signs and went to demand justice for one of the victims of a foreclosure relief scam.
The group gathered and began protesting against the individuals that had been taking advantage of homeowners. The “foreclosure rescue” operated out of Montebello California. They rented space from Real Estate Offices, so it made the business appear as professional. As the group of homeowners lead by ACCE demanded to speak to the predators, the Montebello Police Department was called to the scene. When the police officers arrived they learned why the group was there and began to investigate the crime that was committed. The victim, Mr. Rios was scammed out of $12,000.
One of the highlights of the day was when another potential victim was walking into the building and soon discovered that something was wrong. The family was asked to bring $7,000 to get the so called “help” from the scammers. “They had promised us results and told us that we will never have to make a mortgage payments again”, said the potential victim. They had represented themselves as attorneys specializing in Real Estate and foreclosure.
At all times, the Montebello Police Dept. acted very professional. They heard the homeowners concerns and promised a full investigation. A formal complaint was filed against the scammers.
Public awareness
Too many homeowners across America continue to fall victims to scammers and financial predators. Unless citizens become more involved and educated about the problems, we can only expect more victims among our citizens.
FBI warns against “unscrupulous people looking to line their pockets at the expense of others’ misfortunes,” as the economy is wading through rough waters. According to the Federal Trade Commission, if you or someone you know is looking for a loan modification or other help to save a home, avoid any business that:
- Offers a guarantee to get you a loan modification or stop the foreclosure process;
- Tells you not to contact your lender, lawyer, or a housing counselor;
- Requests upfront fees before providing you with any services;
- Encourages you to transfer your property deed to title to them;
- Accepts payment only by cashier’s check or wire transfer; or
- Pressures you to sign papers you haven’t had the chance to read thoroughly or that you don’t understand.
Community, citizens involvement
Senior Citizens and low income homeowners must have legal assistance available at no cost. Language barriers should be no reason for homeowners to become victims. There must be more done to avoid scammers and financial predatory against hard working Americans. Public awareness must increase and Gov. Agencies must get more involved in educating our communities. If you suspect that someone might be involved in foreclosure relief schemes, you need to alert Law enforcement authorities. It’s time people get involved. Nothing can replace community involvement.
Related link:
http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/learn-more/Pages/beware.aspx