Scams are nothing new in our Pine Tree State, and in this case, state police are warning residents about stay alert.

Unfortunately, there will always be fraud, and vulnerable people. There are always people trying to take advantage of others to make money. Scammers are becoming more and more creative and their plans are becoming more and more more advanced.

This latest scam is considered one of the most “sophisticated” we have seen to date.

Recently, the New York State Police warned citizens about a new scam Target property ownersand Maine residents should be aware of it too. This scam involves scammers trying to trick homeowners into taking their property.

In addition, authorities believe this could be part of a larger plot.

According to a recent Facebook post, New York State Police have uncovered a new scam involving identity theft and real estate fraud. An unknown suspect stole the identity of a property owner in Otsego County, forged a New Jersey driver's license and attempted to sell the property through a local real estate agent.

Police have learned of a new, sophisticated scam and want to make the public aware. New York State Police in Oneonta recently discovered that an unknown suspect stole the identity of a property owner in Otsego County. This unknown suspect then forged a New Jersey driver's license and attempted to sell the property through a local real estate agent. Fortunately, the suspect ran into trouble because there were additional owners listed on the deed, which raised some red flags and delayed the sale. That's when the agent became suspicious and learned that the actual owner had no idea someone was trying to sell their property. Thanks to the agent's diligence, no sale went through and no money was lost. If you believe you are a victim of this scam or know someone who is part of this scam, contact your nearest law enforcement agency as this could be part of a much larger scam.

Fortunately, the sale was halted when the agent noticed discrepancies due to additional owners in the deed, which set off alarm bells and revealed that the actual owner unaware of the attempted sale.

Police urge the public to be cautious and report any suspicion of being a victim of this scam or knowing someone involved in this scam to the nearest police authority as it could be part of a larger plot.

This scam, which involves both fraud and identity theft, nearly cost a New York resident his property, so we should be on guard in our Pine Tree State.