One of the factors contributing to Utah's mortgage fraud problems is the fact that Utah does not publicly disclose real estate sales information. Less than 2 percent of states do not report, but these states represent 30 percent of the top 10 states for fraud.

(The other states are: Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Mississippi, New Mexico, Texas and Wyoming. Missouri and Texas are the other two states in the top 10.)

The lesson is clear: When lenders are unable to independently verify sales prices, they are less able to detect inflated values - and fraud flourishes.

If Utah is serious about fighting this crime, which destroys lives and entire communities, it would be well-advised to begin disclosing sales information.

Ann Fulmer

Atlanta, Ga.