Just when you think big banks couldn’t be more heartless, now we’re hearing that thousands of families were illegally foreclosed on because the banks lost or destroyed their original mortgage notes.

Some big banks announced that they would delay foreclosures until they investigate the faulty practices of their "Foreclosure Factories", but they are downplaying the latest crisis as just a "technical problem."

This is more than just a technical problem. It is yet another a sign of a broken down system. And, it's costing families everything they have.

Big banks have created a system where it is impossible to figure out who owns the loan. There have been instances of two banks trying to foreclose on the same home, and at least in one case, of a bank trying to foreclose on a house where the homeowner had never even taken a mortgage.

It's pretty clear we can't rely on Wall Street banks to follow basic rules. We have to hold them accountable.

What can you do?

3.5 words: "Where's the note?"

If you are a mother facing foreclosure, have an underwater mortgage, or are just a concerned homeowner, it's important that you contact your bank and demand to see the original note on your mortgage.

Your home could be owned by the wrong bank, or you could even be paying the wrong amount on your mortgage. It only takes a few minutes using our free online tool.

Find out if your bank lost your mortgage note - CLICK HERE

Monica Trevino is the Communications Director at National People's Action, a network of community organizations that strive to create a society in which racial and economic justice are realized in all aspects of society, resulting in more equity in work, housing, health, education, finance, and other systems.