Recent investigations by the BBC List of unclaimed estates taken offline after BBC investigation – BBC News and How fake-will fraudsters steal millions from the dead – BBC News) have exposed how fraudsters appear to be targeting estates listed as Bona Vacantia – those belonging to people who have died without a Will or close relatives.
Following this reporting, the Government has taken the unusual step of temporarily removing the Bona Vacantia list from its website.
What is the Bona Vacantia list?
The list is updated daily and typically contains estates where there are no known heirs.
Used legitimately, it provides a valuable way for professional ‘heir hunters’ to trace relatives who may have a rightful claim.
Many families have been reunited with inheritances through this process, which has even been documented in the TV show Heir Hunters.
However, as the BBC investigation highlights, the system has also opened the door to abuse.
How the fraud works
Criminals are exploiting weaknesses in the probate process.
Their methods can include:
- Identifying promising estates on the Bona Vacantia list.
- Creating a false Will, leaving the estate to themselves or a connected party.
- Naming fake witnesses—sometimes even using details of other deceased individuals to avoid scrutiny.
- Undervaluing the estate in the application, keeping it below the £325,000 Inheritance Tax threshold, to escape HMRC checks.
- Submitting the application and, if approved, gaining access to the deceased’s assets.
Before 2017, probate applications from non-solicitors were usually checked in person at local registries, reducing the risk of fraud. With the process now largely online or by post, those safeguards have weakened, creating more opportunities for exploitation.
Safeguarding your estate
Although these cases are rare, they highlight why careful planning is so important.
You can reduce the risk of fraud by:
- Making a valid Will – ensuring your wishes are followed.
- Choosing a trusted executor – seek advice where family is distant or unavailable.
- Storing your Will securely – with a solicitor or via the National Will Register .
- Considering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) – appoint someone you trust to manage your affairs if needed, and to support with post-death administration.
- Seeking advice quickly – if you notice unusual gifts or suspicious claims after a loved one’s death.
We believe forward planning brings peace of mind for you, and for those you leave behind.
If you would like advice on making a Will, appointing an executor, or registering an LPA, or if you have concerns about the estate of a loved one or family member our team is here to help. Get in touch today by phone 0333 210 1876 or by emailing wills@jacksons-law.com
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