With foreclosures in this country reaching a record high, as we recently reported, it's not surprising that more strapped homeowners are looking for some help to avoid losing their homes.

It's also no surprise that scammers are preying on vulnerable homeowners, as evidenced by this week's arrest in Westchester County, New York, of eight people who allegedly defrauded homeowners and mortgage lenders of $1.4 million.

If you're at risk of losing your home, read this story from the September 2009 of the Consumer Reports Money Adviser to avoid foreclosure and learn how to avoid getting ripped off if you're trying to refinance or modify your mortgage.

Essential information: If you or a family member are considering a reverse mortgage, read "Reversals of Fortune" to learn the ins and outs of these loans.