House & Apartment

Many county recorders offer property fraud alerts. These alerts let property owners know when a document has been recorded.

• In most Illinois counties, sign up for Property Fraud Alert,
• In Cook County, sign up with the Cook County recorder’s fraud alert system, or
• Call the county recorder in the county where the property is located for more information on monitoring options.

If an alert comes in, check what has been filed. Ask the county recorder's office for more information about the filing.

Get copies of any new documents. Verify that the document is expected and appears correct. If the document is unfamiliar, talk to a lawyer Someone who represents clients in courts or who gives legal advice .

When warning signs suggest fraud, do not confront the suspect. Learn about Dealing with real estate fraud.

Update mailing addresses with the county recorder and assessor. Receiving mail from the recorder and assessor right away at a regularly checked address is more important than having a local mailing address. However, property is at a higher risk for fraud The deception of someone(s) with intent to cause damage (not including  forgeries and counterfeiting). if the mailing address differs from the property address.

If the property is vacant or far away, ask a trusted neighbor to report suspicious activity.

Keep a valid title insurance policy. Read the policy carefully and ask the insurance representative questions. Policies may cover defense costs and pay for claims caused by fraudulent deeds.

Update contact information with the title insurance company when needed. If contacted by someone claiming to be from the title insurance company, call back using a publicly verifiable phone number.