Mortgage Fraud
Mortgage fraud is committed if a person intentionally or knowingly makes a materially false or misleading written statement to obtain a mortgage loan. Examples of criminal mortgage fraud includes, but is not limited to, illegally inflating property appraisals; concealing a second mortgage from a primary lender; and concealing or stealing a borrower’s identity.
Regulations Governing Mortgage Fraud in Texas
Texas Finance Code 343.105
Statute requires the Notice of Penalties for Making False or Misleading Written Statement (For Owner Occupied, 1-4 Family Residence only)
View Texas Finance Code 343.105
Texas Government Code 402.033
Establishes an avenue for reporting suspected mortgage fraud to an authorized governmental agency.
View Texas Government Code 402.033
Texas Penal Code Section 32.32
Makes it an offense to intentionally or knowingly makes a materially false or misleading written statement to obtain property or credit, including a mortgage loan.
View Texas Penal Code Section 32.32
Reporting Mortgage Fraud
Any financial institution or person that makes a voluntary report of any possible violation of law or regulation to an authorized governmental agency shall not be liable to any person under law or regulation of the state or United States for such report. You may not notify any entity or person involved in the fraudulent activity that the activity has been reported.
Ways to Report
- Complete the Residential Mortgage Fraud Report form
- Mail or Deliver to:
Texas Department of Banking
Consumer Assistance Activities
2601 N. Lamar Blvd.
Austin, Texas 78705-4294
- Fax#: (512) 475-1313 or e-mail
- Call: 877-276-5554
Resources
Texas Attorney General
Accepts complaints on mortgage lenders.