February 19, 2026   Sacramento, Calif. – The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) encourages seniors to be aware of real estate and mortgage fraud targeting older adults. Scammers increasingly target seniors with real estate and mortgage-related deception, exploiting their trust and financial vulnerability. The following tips aim to help Californians safeguard themselves before harm is done, as well as how to report this type of fraud.  Fraud Avoidance Tips Be vigilant,