How can I tell if mortgage mail is a scam?

Look for red flags: urgent language ("act now"), vague sender information, requests for immediate payment, and generic greetings. Legitimate mortgage companies will have clear branding, contact information, and will never pressure you to pay immediately for public records.

What should I do if I receive suspicious mortgage mail?

Do not respond or pay anything. If you are concerned about your mortgage, contact your lender directly using the phone number on your official mortgage statement - not the number in the suspicious letter. You can also report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Are there legitimate reasons my mortgage company would contact me by mail?

Yes. Legitimate reasons include annual escrow statements, interest rate adjustment notices, insurance requirement updates, or refinance offers from your actual lender. These will always include your loan number, clear company branding, and verifiable contact information.

Can I get my property deed and mortgage information for free?

Yes. Your county assessor or recorder office provides free access to property records, deeds, and mortgage information. Your title company can also provide copies of your documents at no charge. You should never pay a third party for this public information.

How can I tell if mortgage mail is a scam?

Look for red flags: urgent language ("act now"), vague sender information, requests for immediate payment, and generic greetings. Legitimate mortgage companies will have clear branding, contact information, and will never pressure you to pay immediately for public records.

What should I do if I receive suspicious mortgage mail?

Do not respond or pay anything. If you are concerned about your mortgage, contact your lender directly using the phone number on your official mortgage statement - not the number in the suspicious letter. You can also report scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Are there legitimate reasons my mortgage company would contact me by mail?

Yes. Legitimate reasons include annual escrow statements, interest rate adjustment notices, insurance requirement updates, or refinance offers from your actual lender. These will always include your loan number, clear company branding, and verifiable contact information.

Can I get my property deed and mortgage information for free?

Yes. Your county assessor or recorder office provides free access to property records, deeds, and mortgage information. Your title company can also provide copies of your documents at no charge. You should never pay a third party for this public information.

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Consumer Protection5 min readJanuary 22, 2026

Do Not Fall for It: The Fake Mortgage Mail Scam Flooding Homeowners

All Articles

By Keith Goeringer · January 22, 2026

Scammers are sending official-looking mortgage mail designed to trick homeowners into paying thousands for worthless services. Here is how to spot the scam and protect yourself.

Quick Summary

1Scam letters look official but use vague language like "important information about your property" to trick homeowners
2They charge $89-$300 for public records you can get free from your county assessor or title company
3Red flags: urgent language, no company name/address, requests for immediate payment, generic greetings
4Protect yourself: verify sender identity, never pay for unsolicited offers, contact your lender directly if concerned

Scammers are sending official-looking mortgage mail designed to trick homeowners. Here is how to spot the scam and protect yourself.

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Written by

Keith Goeringer

Loan Originator, Barrett Financial Group | NMLS #488023

Keith writes practical mortgage guidance for buyers in Franklin, Williamson County, and Middle Tennessee. He focuses on helping buyers understand financing options before they apply or write an offer.

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Keith Goeringer

Senior Loan Officer, Barrett Financial Group | NMLS #488023

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