Attorney general warns of scam

Originators in this one state may want to warn their clients of this ploy

New Mexico’s Attorney General Hector Balderas has issued a scam alert about fraudsters targeting Ocwen mortgage holders.

According to the attorney general’s office, Ocwen has investigated the matter and has determined that fraudsters are posing as Ocwen employees in a bid to defraud current Ocwen clients.

“Do not pay Ocwen mortgage payments by Moneygram in response to 'Making Home Affordable' offer letters or calls,” Attorney General Hector Balderas said in a release. “This is a scam and if you receive one of these letters or calls please contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General.”

Mortgage holders have received letters, stating they have been offered a “trial payment plan” or a loan modification. The letters also include a point of contact.

“Congratulations! You are approved to enter into a trial period plan under the Home Affordable Modification Plan,” an example of the letter, published by the attorney general’s office, reads. “This is the first step toward qualifying for more affordable mortgage payments.”

The letter goes on to say the client must make three equal “trial period” payments of $550.25 to qualify for the fake offer.

“After all trial period payments are timely made and you have submitted all the required documents, your mortgage will be permanently modified … if each payment is not received by Ocwen Loan servicing in the month in which it is due, this offer will end and your loan will not be modified under the Making a Home Affordable Program,” the letter says.