Otter Tail County offers a free Property Fraud Alert service to help residents protect themselves from criminals who steal homes and identities through fake property documents.
The online service monitors when a person’s name appears on any document filed with the County Recorder’s office. When activity is detected, subscribers receive immediate alerts by email or phone call.
“Property fraud is a serious threat,” said County Recorder Lynn Larson. “This free alert system gives residents an early warning, so I urge property owners to sign up – it just takes a few minutes.”
Larson explains property fraud typically works like this: A criminal files a fake deed that makes it look like the real owner transferred their property to someone else. The criminal then uses this fake deed to get a mortgage from a bank and disappears with the money, leaving the real owner to discover their home has been stolen.
These crimes often target elderly residents, people in nursing homes, property owners who live out of state, and those who spend part of the year away from their homes. However, anyone can become a victim.
The Property Fraud Alert system doesn’t prevent fraud from happening, but it provides an early warning so property owners can take action quickly if suspicious activity occurs.
“The best defense against property fraud is staying informed about what’s happening with your property records,” Larson explained. “This service makes it easy for residents to keep watch over their properties.”
The service is completely free and easy to use. Property owners simply visit the website and enter their name to begin monitoring. They can choose to receive alerts by email or phone call whenever their name appears on any recording in the County Recorder’s office.
To sign up for Property Fraud Alert, visit www.propertyfraudalert.com/OTTERTAIL or call 800-728-3858. The service link is also available on the Otter Tail County website.