Recorder's office offers fraud protection service

Cape Girardeau County residents have a new fraud protection service available to them.

The Cape Girardeau County recorder of deeds is offering a new online subscription service that allows the public to have their names and properties monitored within the recorder's office to track possible fraudulent activity.

Subscribers have the option of being notified via email or telephone call when the name they submitted is used in any recording activities within the recorder's office. A news release from recorder Scott R. Clark said the alert does not necessarily prevent fraud from happening, but does provide early warning to allow property owners to take appropriate action should fraudulent activity take place.

"The threat of mortgage fraud and identity theft crimes continue to rise, and all too often victims of these types of fraudulent activities are unaware their homes or identity have been stolen," Clark said.

He also cited oversharing on social media as a method exploited by criminals to take advantage of the unsuspecting.

Property fraud alert is available free to Cape Girardeau County residents online at propertyfraudalert.com/CapeGirardeauMO/Disclaimer.aspx or by calling 1-800-728-3858.

Those with questions or comments also may call the recorder's office at 243-8123.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

1 Barton Square, Cape Girardeau, Mo.