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Information for Single-Family Lending and Real Estate Professionals
Program Announcement
April 30, 2019
Misleading mailers sent using WSHFC's name
Dear Lending Partners,
It has come to our attention that some of your borrowers with mortgages through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) may have received a card in the mail that appears to be related to the borrower’s WSHFC mortgage. The Commission did not send or authorize these cards, nor has the Commission been able to identify the company or individual responsible.
In one example, a borrower received a card that states, “You have recently closed on this mortgage with WASHINGTON STATE HOUSING FINANCE COMMISSION.” The card urges the borrower to call a telephone number on a “time sensitive” and “important matter regarding this loan.” The card provides a three-word “Mortgage Authentication Phase” and a numerical “Mortgage ID." Although the card states at the bottom in smaller font, “Not affiliated with, nor endorsed by WASHINGTON STATE HOUSING FINANCE COMMISSION,” it is clearly meant to confuse the recipient. A redacted copy of the card is attached for your reference.
The Commission is concerned that these cards may be part of a fraudulent scheme targeting our borrowers. We have referred the matter to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office Consumer Division for investigation.
We ask for your assistance by:
Notifying potentially affected borrowers of the possible risks.
Encouraging them to call 800-767-4663 or email info@heretohome.org if they receive any suspicious mailings or have questions about the authenticity of communications that claim to be related to a WSHFC mortgage.
Notifying us immediately if you hear your borrowers have received similar mailings received or or any related issues.
We appreciate you working with us to serve and protect our borrowers.
If you have additional questions, please email Corinna Obar
