Glenna Craig, Payne County Clerk is pleased to announce that her office is now offering a FREE fraud alert notification system to the public through her website at no cost to the citizens of Payne County together with EDOC Technologies. Craig stated that this is something that she has been working on for the past few months. Craig recently attended a national conference in Charleston S.C. where property fraud and cyber security were the key topics discussed.

This monitoring system will send an email or text message alert to you if a document, such as a deed or lien, is recorded with your name or business name as it appears in title. You must register for a FREE account to be able to receive monitoring.

While Payne County has not had an issue to date with property fraud, Craig stated that “According to the FBI, property and mortgage fraud is the fastest growing crime in America. It is as simple as someone recording a fraudulent document against your property, making it appear as though they own it.” said Craig. “Then they obtain a mortgage or deed against the property and the rightful owner does not usually find out until they receive a notice of foreclosure or someone sales the property.

Craig stated “The Payne County Clerk’s office reviews each document presented for filing to make sure that it meets all statutory requirements to be filed. This new alert system is a way to help property owners prevent becoming the victim of property fraud. This gives the property owners an early warning of property fraud being committed, and an opportunity to take action to prevent further fraud.” Craig said, “There are many programs out there that are similar, but they all charge a monthly fee.” “We are providing this service at no cost to the public for anyone who wants to participate.” Typically, the most vulnerable for this type of crime are those with high equity and no mortgage, and those who own properties which they do not personally occupy, such as rental homes, vacation homes or investment properties.

If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, contact your local law enforcement office. You may also need to contact an attorney to determine whether you need to take legal action to undo the fraudulent recording.

As your County Clerk, I urge you to monitor public records filed using your name, because it is an important way to protect yourself from fraud. Don't delay, sign up today by going to countyclerk.paynecounty.org, click the property fraud alert tab!