The Legal Description - Daily News

‘How I Would Hack Your Title Agency’ talk illuminates modern cyber threat landscape

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:02:25 GMT

‘How I Would Hack Your Title Agency’ talk illuminates modern cyber threat landscape - During his session at the 2026 National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) in Kansas City, Mo., educator and consultant Matt Lee spared no details as he broke down how he would go about infiltrating a title agency and holding its data for ransom. Along the way, Lee, who serves as security and compliance senior director at Pax8, shared preventative tips and his philosophy on why cyber defenders should also know how to go on offense.

Tennessee legislature amends state’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Act

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:55:55 GMT

Tennessee legislature amends state’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Act - In a bill enacted on May 19, lawmakers in Tennessee implemented amendments to the state’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Act, including renaming the law the Tennessee Reverse Mortgage Innovation Act, redefining “reverse mortgage” and more.

Rhode Island considers updates to regulations governing real estate brokers

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:53:55 GMT

Rhode Island considers updates to regulations governing real estate brokers - Legislators in Rhode Island are considering a bill that would clarify the roles involved in real estate transactions, including those who list, sell, purchase, exchange, rent, lease or auction real estate for a fee. The bill also sets standards for individuals who advertise these services or help others in real estate transactions for profit.

Partner Engineering debuts 2026 Guide to ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:51:36 GMT

Partner Engineering debuts 2026 Guide to ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys - Environmental and construction consulting firm Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. has released the latest iteration of its land title survey guide, a resource designed to help commercial real estate professionals understand and apply the latest industry standards.

More than 20 individuals, companies indicted in vast Manhattan deed theft conspiracy

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:49:45 GMT

More than 20 individuals, companies indicted in vast Manhattan deed theft conspiracy - Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg Jr. announced on May 28 the indictment of 18 individuals and three companies, all accused of conspiring to steal a home deed and fraudulently obtaining a mortgage and construction loan totaling $1,636,000.

Landlocked property leads to lawsuit, appeal between buyer and insurance agents

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:57:13 GMT

Landlocked property leads to lawsuit, appeal between buyer and insurance agents - After his suit against an insurance agency and title company was stopped by summary judgement in a trial court, one property buyer appealed while representing himself. The appeals court then had to determine whether the trial court was right to deny the man’s punitive damages claims.

Louisiana lawmakers vote to prohibit ‘foreign adversary’ purchase of military-adjacent land

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:54:20 GMT

Louisiana lawmakers vote to prohibit ‘foreign adversary’ purchase of military-adjacent land - A bill to prohibit foreign adversaries from acquiring land interests near military installations was approved by the Louisiana state legislature on June 1 and is pending signature by Gov. Jeff Landry.

Newsom orders California businesses to insulate workers from AI disruption

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:52:14 GMT

Newsom orders California businesses to insulate workers from AI disruption - Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on May 21 directing California businesses and government agencies to prepare workers, small businesses, and communities for the economic disruption that artificial intelligence is expected to bring to the workforce.

Minnesota financial services company to pay restitution after overcharging customers

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:50:27 GMT

Minnesota financial services company to pay restitution after overcharging customers - A financial services company that overcharged Minnesotans for equity transactions over a period of five years is being compelled by the Minnesota Department of Commerce to pay restitution of more than $242,000 to thousands of customers.

Manhattan real estate lawyer indicted for stealing $700,000 from clients

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:49:05 GMT

Manhattan real estate lawyer indicted for stealing $700,000 from clients - A Manhattan-based real estate attorney was charged on May 28 for stealing approximately $700,000 from three of her clients after being retained as a seller’s attorney in three separate real estate closings last year.

MV Realty reaches $2.5M settlement with California AG

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:04:26 GMT

MV Realty reaches $2.5M settlement with California AG - California Attorney General Rob Bonta has reached a settlement with Florida-based real estate company MV Realty, its CEO and its chief operating officer, which terminates the company’s liens, compels it to refund fees and voids existing agreements with homeowners. MV Realty must also pay more than $1.3 million in restitution and nearly $1.2 million in civil penalties.

FEMA Review Council recommends shrinking NFIP scope, funding

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:01:21 GMT

FEMA Review Council recommends shrinking NFIP scope, funding - The National Flood Insurance Program may see its scope and role in federal disaster response and prevention efforts reduced under a new set of recommendations from Federal Emergency Management Agency leadership.

Texas primary narrows the field for state AG

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:59:03 GMT

Texas primary narrows the field for state AG - After winning their respective primaries for the office of Texas attorney general (AG), Republican Mayes Middleton and Democrat Nathan Johnson are set to face off in the November general election while AG Ken Paxton secured the Republican nomination for the state’s open U.S. Senate seat.

Maryland to officially evaluate blockchain applications for recording land titles

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:57:26 GMT

Maryland to officially evaluate blockchain applications for recording land titles - A new bill recently signed into law in Maryland will commence efforts by the state to evaluate the potential applications of blockchain technology in real estate documentation, including land titles and lease agreements.

Tennessee governor signs amended deed conveyance bill

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:55:02 GMT

Tennessee governor signs amended deed conveyance bill - A bill introduced in Tennessee previously referred to as the “Tennessee Real Estate Consumer Fraud Protection Act,” which proposed to implement new safeguards on real estate transactions taking place in the state, has been amended and signed into law by Gov. Bill Lee.

Florida banker gets 12 years in prison for bribery, insurance fraud

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:53:08 GMT

Florida banker gets 12 years in prison for bribery, insurance fraud - A bank founder from Tampa, Fla., was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his involvement in a bribery and fraud scheme that bankrupted various insurance companies, leaving many policyholders with unpaid claims.

Arizona AG files suit to save homeowner from equity-stripping scheme

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:06:21 GMT

Arizona AG files suit to save homeowner from equity-stripping scheme - Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes filed a lawsuit to stop the wrongful foreclosure of a home involved in an equity stripping scheme. The defendants in the suit are accused of orchestrating a fake foreclosure that would prevent the attorney general from returning a disputed property to its rightful owner.

Financial company sues closing firm for overseeing fraudulent transaction

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:02:14 GMT

Financial company sues closing firm for overseeing fraudulent transaction - After falling victim to a fraud scheme, a financial company sued the closing firm involved in the transaction for failing to act with due caution and causing financial harm. A district court eventually ruled on whether the matter would go to trial.

U.S. House passes bipartisan bill to strengthen small business cybersecurity

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

U.S. House passes bipartisan bill to strengthen small business cybersecurity - The Small Business Competitions Assistance Evaluation Act of 2026 received unanimous support in a recent U.S. House vote. If implemented, the bill would direct the General Accountability Office to evaluate federal cybersecurity assistance to small businesses.

FBI warns of phishing-as-a-service tool that can bypass MFA defenses

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:58:19 GMT

FBI warns of phishing-as-a-service tool that can bypass MFA defenses - A recent public service announcement by the FBI detailed the growing prevalence of a phishing toolkit that allows determined attackers to penetrate networks, even those protected by multi-factor authentication systems.

Consumer Fraud Protection Act introduced in Tennessee

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:56:44 GMT

Consumer Fraud Protection Act introduced in Tennessee - Lawmakers in Tennessee have introduced a bill titled the “Tennessee Real Estate Consumer Fraud Protection Act,” which aims to implement new safeguards to ensure real estate transactions taking place in the state are legitimate and verified.

New York DFS releases updated cybersecurity guidance

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:55:13 GMT

New York DFS releases updated cybersecurity guidance - New York State Department of Financial Services Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow issued new guidance identifying cybersecurity measures that department-regulated entities should consider adopting when facing a heightened threat environment.

FinCEN releases new guidance on real estate reporting rule amid court battle

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:37:10 GMT

FinCEN releases new guidance on real estate reporting rule amid court battle - The Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued three new FAQs on May 18 to clarify the status of its residential real estate transaction rule after a Texas federal court ruled it invalid and ordered a stay of enforcement.

DC AG penalizes nonprofit development executive for misuse of funds

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:30:39 GMT

DC AG penalizes nonprofit development executive for misuse of funds - District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb reached a $1.255 million fund misuse judgment against the former executive director of the nonprofit H Street Community Development Corp.

NS3 attendees pitch in to support Kansas City-area foster children

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:25:22 GMT

NS3 attendees pitch in to support Kansas City-area foster children - Attendees at this year’s National Settlement Services Summit had the opportunity to bring comfort to Kansas City area children in the family court system through the annual “Make a Child Smile” community outreach event, sponsored by Qualia.

Tennessee considers updates to public record access regulations

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:22:32 GMT

Tennessee considers updates to public record access regulations - A bill introduced to the Tennessee legislature earlier this year would, if enacted, amend certain sections of state code governing access to and redaction of public records.

NIPR directors announce planned leadership transition of CEO position

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:20:29 GMT

NIPR directors announce planned leadership transition of CEO position - Directors of the National Insurance Producer Registry announced that CEO Karen Stakem Hornig will retire in June 2027, with Chief Product and Technology Officer Eric Saul set to succeed her as CEO.

Connecticut Insurance Department issues insurance fraud warning

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:12:01 GMT

Connecticut Insurance Department issues insurance fraud warning - The Connecticut Insurance Department issued a bulletin on May 15, warning consumers to be aware of the risk of insurance fraud and online scams.

Texas AG warns 130+ cities of penalties if they implement unauthorized property tax hikes

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:31:15 GMT

Texas AG warns 130+ cities of penalties if they implement unauthorized property tax hikes - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued letters to more than 130 cities, prohibiting them from raising ad valorem taxes above the no-new-revenue tax rate implemented by SB 1851.

Industry innovators, leaders to take the stage in Kansas City for NS3

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:26:22 GMT

Industry innovators, leaders to take the stage in Kansas City for NS3 - More than 40 speakers will take the stage over three days this week at the National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown in Kansas City, Mo.

California regulators penalize fintech company for deceptive practices

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:22:52 GMT

California regulators penalize fintech company for deceptive practices - The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation announced that San Francisco-based fintech Yotta Technologies will be required to pay a $1 million penalty for engaging in deceptive acts or practices.

Rhode Island passes bill establishing title fraud as a criminal offense

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:20:39 GMT

Rhode Island passes bill establishing title fraud as a criminal offense - A bill has been advanced through the Rhode Island legislature that would establish title fraud as a criminal offense in the state, while also setting restrictions on the electronic filing of real estate documents.

Tax lien sale reform legislation sent to Colorado governor

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:18:34 GMT

Tax lien sale reform legislation sent to Colorado governor - A bill proposing comprehensive reform to Colorado’s tax lien sales processes was sent to the desk of Gov. Jared Polis after passing both chambers of the state legislature.

Former New York judge, accomplice face up to 20 years for wire fraud

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:17:17 GMT

Former New York judge, accomplice face up to 20 years for wire fraud - A former Kings County Supreme Court justice and his accomplice were charged with wire fraud conspiracy at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn on May 13. The defendants face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Government appeals Texas court decision staying enforcement of FinCEN real estate rule

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:05:43 GMT

Government appeals Texas court decision staying enforcement of FinCEN real estate rule - The U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and its co-defendants have appealed the court decision in Flowers Title Companies, LLC v. Scott Bessent, et al. that paused enforcement of its sweeping real estate transaction reporting rule. Luke Wake, an attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation, which represented Flowers Title owner Celia Flowers in the suit, talked to The Legal Description about what he expects may happen next.

Escrow company found largely liable after homebuyers fall victim to scam

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:03:07 GMT

Escrow company found largely liable after homebuyers fall victim to scam - Two homebuyers who fell victim to a wire fraud scam in 2020 were granted $1.2 million relief on April 7 when the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego filed a ruling declaring the escrow company to be at majority fault for the fraudulent transaction.

FTC issues noncompete warning to mortgage servicer

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:01:57 GMT

FTC issues noncompete warning to mortgage servicer - A Pennsylvania-based national mortgage services provider was sent a formal warning letter by Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew Ferguson asking the company to ensure compliance with laws banning noncompete agreements for employees.

New Jersey proposes reform to real estate licensing, CE requirements

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:00:20 GMT

New Jersey proposes reform to real estate licensing, CE requirements - A bill has been proposed in the New Jersey Assembly that would revise continuing education requirements for real estate licensees and continuing education providers.

Colorado bill would revise real estate commission’s licensing authority

Wed, 13 May 2026 17:58:49 GMT

Colorado bill would revise real estate commission’s licensing authority - Legislators in Colorado have advanced a bill that would update certain statutes governing the licensing of real estate brokers, as well as certain actions that can be taken by the state real estate commission.

Montana insurance commissioner announces $4M in rate savings so far in 2026

Wed, 13 May 2026 17:57:15 GMT

Montana insurance commissioner announces $4M in rate savings so far in 2026 - Attributing the savings to his denial of “unjustified” rate increases, Montana Insurance Commissioner James Brown announced that more than $4 million has been saved for Montana customers so far this year.

Government appeals Texas court decision staying enforcement of FinCEN real estate rule

Tue, 12 May 2026 14:06:35 GMT

Government appeals Texas court decision staying enforcement of FinCEN real estate rule - The U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network and its co-defendants, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have appealed the court decision that paused enforcement of its sweeping real estate transaction reporting rule.

Ohio AG resigns as primary election solidifies challengers for the office

Mon, 11 May 2026 18:00:08 GMT

Ohio AG resigns as primary election solidifies challengers for the office - Term-limited Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced his retirement the day after a primary election solidified the two candidates who will compete for his office in November. Yost’s temporary replacement was confirmed by Gov. Mike DeWine on May 11.

Missouri regulators ask insurers for input following data breach

Mon, 11 May 2026 17:58:29 GMT

Missouri regulators ask insurers for input following data breach - The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance issued a bulletin requesting insurance companies to share information about any services utilized through Conduent Business Services or its affiliates following the recent disclosure of a cybersecurity breach impacting the company.

New Jersey AG renews focus on housing discrimination penalties, other open cases

Mon, 11 May 2026 17:56:39 GMT

New Jersey AG renews focus on housing discrimination penalties, other open cases - New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced that her office and the Division on Civil Rights were intensifying their efforts to prevent housing discrimination for New Jersey residents, including approving a new amendment to a 2022 redlining practices settlement with a mortgage company.

Virginia considers bill to compel title agencies to share risk rate schedules

Mon, 11 May 2026 17:54:59 GMT

Virginia considers bill to compel title agencies to share risk rate schedules - Lawmakers in Virginia have introduced a bill that, if enacted, would require title insurance companies to publish their risk rate schedules and would also prohibit charges outside those schedules.

NAIC names Jeffrey Johnston as new CEO

Mon, 11 May 2026 17:53:10 GMT

NAIC names Jeffrey Johnston as new CEO - The National Association of Insurance Commissioners announced on May 6 that it had named Jeffrey Johnston its CEO, moving him from his role as interim CEO effective June 1.

Security administrator charged with defrauding financial services company

Mon, 11 May 2026 17:51:15 GMT

Security administrator charged with defrauding financial services company - A dual citizen of the United States and the Philippines has been charged with wire fraud after stealing more than $6.6 million from his employer through his job overseeing mortgage payments related to residential mortgage-backed securities.

Residential property owners sue title agency amid disputes with tenants, housing authorities

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:46:42 GMT

Residential property owners sue title agency amid disputes with tenants, housing authorities - After purchasing a residential complex and being hit with violations from the local department of housing – as well as legal action from tenants – an investment group sued its title agency for refusing coverage in the resulting litigation.

Primary race for California insurance commissioner solidifies with 11 candidates

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:44:23 GMT

Primary race for California insurance commissioner solidifies with 11 candidates - Eleven candidates are competing in the top-two primary race for insurance commissioner in California next month, all aiming to eventually replace outgoing and term-limited incumbent Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara.

FinCEN seeking comments on renewal of BSA reporting obligations for MSBs

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:42:11 GMT

FinCEN seeking comments on renewal of BSA reporting obligations for MSBs - In an effort to reduce paperwork and reporting burden on regulated entities, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network is seeking comments on a renewal, without change, to information collection requirements contained in the Bank Secrecy Act applicable to money services businesses.

Oklahoma advances bill to update insurance ratemaking standards, procedures

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:40:16 GMT

Oklahoma advances bill to update insurance ratemaking standards, procedures - Lawmakers in the Oklahoma legislature have passed a bill to update ratemaking standards for insurance entities operating in the state, including statutes determining how rates can be deemed excessive or inadequate based on actuarial reviews and the potential for excessive profits.

California regulators fine State Farm for mishandling of wildfire claims

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:38:26 GMT

California regulators fine State Farm for mishandling of wildfire claims - The California Department of Insurance is seeking to impose heavy fines against State Farm General Insurance Co. after uncovering what it called widespread improper handling of claims from survivors of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.

Oregon real estate investment managers sentenced in $17M fraud scheme

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:36:42 GMT

Oregon real estate investment managers sentenced in $17M fraud scheme - The owners of a Portland, Ore.-area real estate investment company were sentenced to federal prison on April 30 for defrauding investors and submitting falsified loan applications.

High-profile scam by athlete posing as NFL players highlights ongoing deed fraud threat

Mon, 04 May 2026 18:01:00 GMT

High-profile scam by athlete posing as NFL player highlights ongoing deed fraud threat - Former University of Alabama football player Luther Davis faces charges in connection with an elaborate loan fraud scheme where he pretended to be multiple NFL players, highlighting the pervasive deed fraud threat homeowners continue to face. Edward McDonnell, CEO of McDonnell and Associates in Columbia, S.C., knows first-hand that such criminal activity is far from unusual. He shared his experience and advice with The Legal Description.

New York City launches deed theft prevention office

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:58:19 GMT

New York City launches deed theft prevention office - On April 24, New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani officially announced the launch of the Mayor’s Office of Deed Theft Prevention – the first in the city’s history. Peter White was appointed as the office’s first director.

CFPB acting director seeks reduced funding, floats layoffs

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:56:37 GMT

CFPB acting director seeks reduced funding, floats layoffs - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is on track to become even leaner than ever, with Acting Director Russ Vought lowering budget appropriations and planning for significant layoffs.

Tennessee enacts reform to title insurance premium sharing regulations

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:54:55 GMT

Tennessee enacts reform to title insurance premium sharing regulations - A new bill signed into law by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee reforms the state’s annotated code to require title insurance agencies to notify the buyer and seller in a transaction if the agencies plan to share premiums, commissions or other fees.

Kansas signs ‘by-right housing development act’ to address housing shortages

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:51:28 GMT

Kansas signs ‘by-right housing development act’ to address housing shortages - The newly enacted “by-right housing development act” from the Kansas Legislature aims to simplify the approval process for housing developments, including single-family homes, townhouses and accessory dwelling units, with the goal of improving affordability in the state.

ALTA urges FinCEN to reform final rule during enforcement freeze

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:47:31 GMT

ALTA urges FinCEN to reform final rule during enforcement freeze - While the Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s major real estate transaction reporting rule is on pause following a court vacatur order, the American Land Title Association is taking the opportunity to push for reform.

Pennsylvania AG nullifies MV Realty contracts with homeowners in settlement

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:44:48 GMT

Pennsylvania AG nullifies MV Realty contracts with homeowners in settlement - In a settlement agreement between Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday and Florida-based real estate company MV Realty, the company agreed to nullify its contracts with Pennsylvania homeowners and pay restitution.

What the FinCEN district court ruling really means for the industry

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:42:27 GMT

What the FinCEN district court ruling really means for the industry - While the immediate reaction to the court ruling vacating the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s residential real estate reporting rule may have been relief, a more complicated question remains: what, exactly, changed and what didn’t?

Breach of contract dispute between developer, title agency goes to appeals court

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:34:33 GMT

Breach of contract dispute between developer, title agency goes to appeals court - An appeals court reviewed a breach of contract dispute between a real estate management company and its title insurance provider, which involved undeveloped units and reversion of title.

Virigina enacts expanded privacy protections for personal information

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:32:48 GMT

Virigina enacts expanded privacy protections for personal information - Privacy protections for personal information in Virginia got a boost on April 13, when Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed a law implementing strict requirements for the collection and storage of personal information.

New York state agencies returned $237 million+ for consumers in 2025

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:30:09 GMT

New York state agencies return $237 million+ for consumers in 2025 - New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on April 23 that state agencies had recovered more than $237.7 million for consumers last year, accounting for marketplace disputes, utility complaints, wage theft and more.

Texas business court dismisses two poaching suits against WFG National Title

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:03:58 GMT

Texas business court dismisses two poaching suits against WFG National Title - Two Texas-based title companies are closing the books on their individual lawsuits accusing WFG National Title Co. of Texas of poaching, following a decision by the Business Court of Texas, Fourth Division in San Antonio that dismissed both cases with prejudice.

MV Realty agrees to void homeowner contracts in settlement with Nevada AG

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:01:29 GMT

MV Realty agrees to void homeowner contracts in settlement with Nevada AG - Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford and state regulators announced an agreement with MV Realty that would void the real estate company’s predatory contracts and cease all collection efforts in the state, among other corrective actions.

Nebraska enacts law to oppose foreign data collection via money transmitters

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:58:44 GMT

Nebraska enacts law to oppose foreign data collection via money transmitters - In a new bill signed into law on April 14, Nebraska legislators have implemented new guardrails on money transmission services that can be used by foreign adversaries to collect data on American citizens.

FinCEN reviews regulatory savings, other achievements in 2025

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:57:09 GMT

FinCEN reviews regulatory savings, other achievements in 2025 - Throughout 2025, the Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network leveraged its tools to uphold national security and protect the livelihoods of the American people, including returning $991 million to fraud victims.

California considers major reform of intervenor system, rate review process

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:55:28 GMT

California considers major reform of intervenor system, rate review process - The California Department of Insurance has submitted its Intervenor and Administrative Hearing Bureau Fairness and Accountability rulemaking package for final review, with a goal of strengthening transparency, improving efficiency and protecting consumer funds in the insurance rate review process.

Property Protection Scorecard highlights need for state-level deed fraud safeguards

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:53:16 GMT

Property Protection Scorecard highlights need for state-level deed fraud safeguards - Real estate fraud prevention service provider EquityProtect has launched the Property Protection Scorecard, a quarterly report that monitors deed theft and title fraud legislation across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Fidelity appeals Florida district court ruling upholding FinCEN final rule

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 18:06:08 GMT

Fidelity appeals Florida district court ruling upholding FinCEN final rule - While opponents of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s real estate transaction reporting rule celebrate the recent vacatur order against it, Fidelity National Financial is taking the opportunity to appeal in hopes of overturning their own court outcome, which previously upheld the rule.

Virginia lawmakers pass deed fraud prevention bill package

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 18:02:21 GMT

Virginia lawmakers pass deed fraud prevention package - The Virginia General Assembly has passed a pair of bills aimed at reducing deed fraud, which will require seller identity verification for settlement agents, the implementation of education requirements for notaries and more.

Wisconsin lawmakers pass bills to modernize deed registration processes

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:57:31 GMT

Wisconsin lawmakers pass bills to modernize deed registration processes - A legislative package has been passed by lawmakers in Wisconsin which, once signed by the governor, will modernize deed registration procedures and streamline the recording of documents.

FinCEN’s rapid response program interdicts funding for fraud victims

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:55:15 GMT

FinCEN’s rapid response program interdicts funding for fraud victims - The Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s Rapid Response Program has facilitated the interdiction of over $1.8 billion in stolen funds on behalf of U.S. victims since the program’s inception.

New Oregon DFR insurance premium program helping affordable housing providers

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:52:53 GMT

New Oregon DFR insurance premium program helping affordable housing providers - The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is accepting applications for help with the rising costs of insurance premiums for affordable housing providers. State legislators passed a bill in the 2025 legislative session to help mitigate and stabilize insurance costs for affordable housing providers and emergency shelter operators.

Ohio social media influencer sentenced for Ponzi scheme, tax fraud

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:48:30 GMT

Ohio social media influencer sentenced for Ponzi scheme, tax fraud - U.S. Attorney Dominick Gerace II recently announced enforcement actions against violators of tax laws, including an Ohio social media influencer who orchestrated a $20 million real estate Ponzi scheme and committed tax fraud to further that scheme.

Homeowner appeals ruling that upheld title company’s coverage denial

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:49:57 GMT

Homeowner appeals ruling that upheld title company’s coverage denial - When property owners in Massachusetts were sued by neighbors over a boundary wall and their title insurance provider declined legal protection, the owners sued the provider for breach of contract. A judge ruled that the title company had correctly denied coverage, leading the property owners to appeal.

Arizona considers implementing public record secrecy statute

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:48:12 GMT

Arizona considers implementing public record secrecy statute - Lawmakers in Arizona are deliberating over a house bill that would enable citizens of any county to request that their personal information is kept confidential, including recorded documents and certain properties held in trust.

Tennessee lawmakers pass bill to require training, verification for filing deeds

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:46:28 GMT

Tennessee lawmakers pass bill to require training, verification for filing deeds - Pending signature by Gov. Bill Lee, a new state law in Tennessee will soon require increased oversight requirements for county-level deed recorders.

Nevada Tax Commission considers revising exemptions to property transfer tax

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:44:49 GMT

Nevada Tax Commission considers revising exemptions to property transfer tax - The Nevada Tax Commission is considering updates to the state’s real property transfer tax regulations, including changes to how exemptions to the tax are granted.

Connecticut confirms incoming insurance commissioner

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:42:57 GMT

Connecticut confirms incoming insurance commissioner - The Connecticut Insurance Department announced on April 10 that the Connecticut State Senate confirmed the state’s 34th insurance commissioner.

Montana regulators report $1 million in fraud loss prevention so far in 2026

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:41:25 GMT

Montana regulators report $1 million in fraud loss prevention so far in 2026 - So far in 2026, Montana State Auditor James Brown and his team have helped to prevent nearly $1 million in fraud-related losses for Montanans, according to Brown’s office.

Panel discusses blockchain applications for recorders, recordkeepers

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 18:01:47 GMT

Panel discusses blockchain applications for recorders, recordkeepers - During the 2026 Property Records Industry Association Winter Symposium, experts gathered to discuss blockchain and its potential applications for county recorders and other recordkeepers.

FBI: Cybercrime cost Americans nearly $21 billion in 2025

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:59:59 GMT

FBI: Cybercrime cost Americans nearly $21 billion in 2025 - The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center published findings from its annual Internet Crime Report, which revealed that artificial intelligence scams and other cyber-enabled crimes cost Americans nearly $21 billion in losses last year.

California bill would update Department of Insurance regulations

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:57:48 GMT

California bill would update Department of Insurance regulations - The statutes and regulations outlined under the law establishing California’s Department of Insurance could be altered by a new bill being considered by state lawmakers.

Missouri bill would update real estate disclosure requirements

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:56:22 GMT

Missouri bill would update real estate disclosure requirements - Legislators in Missouri are considering a bill that would institute new requirements for residential real estate wholesalers, including written disclosure statements prior to contracts going into effect.

Nebraska lawmakers pass law updating county tax assessor regulations

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:54:53 GMT

Nebraska lawmakers pass law updating county tax assessor regulations - New regulations could soon go into effect in Nebraska which will adjust the statutes governing the election, operation and responsibilities of county tax assessors, as well as how county governments request and set certification requirements for deputy assessors.

Illinois state bill proposes minimum fees for county clerks, recorders

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:53:29 GMT

Illinois state bill proposes minimum fees for county clerks, recorders - Lawmakers in Illinois are deliberating over a state bill that would establish a minimum fee schedule for the recording of various documents by county officials.

Title agency files counterclaims against cyber insurers following fraud loss

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:54:12 GMT

Title agency files counterclaims against cyber insurers following fraud loss - Two insurance companies went before a district court to dismiss counterclaims made against them by a title agency, with the dispute centering around cyber insurance coverage responsibility, negligence and a real estate fraud scheme addressed in an underlying lawsuit.

State-level enforcement likely to remain defining regulatory factor in 2026

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:48:39 GMT

State-level enforcement likely to remain defining regulatory factor in 2026 - As part of The Legal Description’s 2026 State of the Industry report, we checked in with a few of our trusted experts to help discern the road ahead through the most pressing challenges, both new and old alike.

Missouri insurance regulators deny license for title company owner

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:41:56 GMT

Missouri insurance regulators deny license for title company owner - Citing multiple violations of state law as drivers of the decision, the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance refused to issue an insurance producer license to the owner of a title company in Columbia, Mo.

FinCEN outlines proposed reform to BSA-related anti-money laundering programs

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:40:14 GMT

FinCEN outlines proposed reform to BSA-related anti-money laundering programs - The U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network has issued a proposed rule intended to fundamentally reform financial institutions’ anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing programs under the Bank Secrecy Act.

Arkansas Insurance Department reminds producers of annual renewal requirements

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:38:45 GMT

Arkansas Insurance Department reminds producers of annual renewal requirements - The Arkansas Insurance Department issued a bulletin to the state’s licensed insurance entities on April 2, reminding producers that they are required to annually file for appointment renewal with the insurance commissioner and pay any related fees.

Ohio regulators recognize Fraud Prevention Month

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:37:26 GMT

Ohio regulators recognize Fraud Prevention Month - As part of Fraud Prevention Month, Ohio Department of Insurance Director Judith French is urging residents to safeguard against insurance fraud, which is estimated to cost consumers and businesses billions annually.

Exploring physical media, data backups and the role of recordkeepers

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:21:58 GMT

Exploring physical media, data backups and the role of recordkeepers - Panelists at the Property Records Industry Association’s 2026 Winter Symposium dove deep into the various forms of physical media and data backup options that are emerging as ways to mitigate the risk of cyberattacks and outages, from paper to optical drives.

Appeals court reviews complete defense rule in dispute against title company

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:15:30 GMT

Appeals court reviews complete defense rule in dispute against title company - An irrevocable trust appealed a district court’s decision in its suit against a title services provider over a claims and coverage dispute. The case was ultimately decided in an appeals court.

Colorado considers tax lien sale overhaul

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:13:43 GMT

Colorado considers tax lien sale overhaul - The Colorado legislature is considering a bill which aims to modify the fees that county treasurers can charge, to amend the process for selling tax liens and to revise how a treasurer's deed is obtained after a public auction of property affected by a tax lien.

Treasury to begin series of meetings with insurance regulators

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:11:57 GMT

Treasury to begin series of meetings with insurance regulators - The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced on April 1 that it plans to convene a series of meetings with domestic and international insurance regulators as part of efforts to facilitate better regular communication and closer collaboration with state insurance regulators.

Maine Bureau of Insurance reports saving consumers $5.8M in insurance costs in 2025

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:03:46 GMT

Maine Bureau of Insurance reports saving consumers $5.8M in insurance costs in 2025 - According to the Maine Bureau of Insurance, its regulatory and review processes in 2025 managed to save Maine consumers a total of roughly $5.8 million in insurance costs throughout 2025. An additional $4.5 million was returned through investigations into customer complaints.

Former Missouri escrow officer pleads guilty to bank fraud

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:02:13 GMT

Former Missouri escrow officer pleads guilty to bank fraud - A former escrow officer from Cameron, Mo., pleaded guilty in federal court on March 24 to one count of bank fraud. She now faces up to 30 years in federal prison without parole.