Beware of foreclosure fraud, warns district attorney

The Ventura County District Attorney's office has issued a consumer protection advisory to residents who may be facing foreclosure due to their inability to make timely payments on home loans.

Homeowners should be wary of foreclosure prevention, delay or rescue solicitations where the homeowner is urged to transfer ownership of a portion of their home to another individual or entity. Often these solicitations offer little or no benefit to the homeowner and may involve criminal conduct.

Homeowners who believe their homes may be in danger of foreclosure are urged to read the complete advisory letter, which is available in English and Spanish, at www.da.countyofventura.org/ refraud_unit.htm. The letter also contains information about resources that provide genuine assistance to distressed homeowners.