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MODERATE THREAT · Financial Fraud Alert

Consumer Alert: Ongoing Financial Fraud Risks in California

The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) continues to issue warnings regarding ongoing financial fraud, including mortgage-related investment risks and imposter scams targeting consumers and licensees.

10/9/2026Financial servicesReal estate and escrow servicesEmail communicationsInvestment advisory services

Warning signs

  • Unsolicited offers regarding home equity investments
  • Entities or individuals falsely posing as licensed investment advisers
  • Imposter emails misusing the identity of government employees
  • High-pressure tactics regarding land investment opportunities
  • Websites misrepresenting themselves as legitimate escrow companies

What you should do

  • Verify the license status of any financial service provider through the official DFPI website
  • Contact the DFPI Consumer Services Office at 1-866-275-2677 if you suspect fraudulent activity
  • Do not provide personal or financial information in response to unsolicited emails or calls
  • Report suspicious financial solicitations or potential scams to the DFPI via their online complaint portal
  • Review the DFPI's monthly bulletins and consumer alerts for updated information on active threats
As of October 2026, the California DFPI remains active in monitoring and enforcing regulations against deceptive financial practices. Recent enforcement actions throughout 2026 have addressed various threats, including mortgage fraud, land investment scams, and entities falsely representing themselves as licensed professionals. The DFPI emphasizes that consumers should remain vigilant against unsolicited financial offers and verify the legitimacy of any entity claiming to be a licensed financial service provider. The department regularly publishes consumer alerts and monthly bulletins to inform the public about identified risks and regulatory actions taken to protect Californians.

Sources

https://dfpi.ca.gov/news/monthly-bulletins/monthly-bulletin-october-2026/https://dfpi.ca.gov/news/consumer-alertshttps://dfpi.ca.gov/