04/03/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/03/2025 12:24
The Linn County Recorder's Office offers a free property fraud alert service to help homeowners protect their most valuable asset - their home - and encourages homeowners to sign up today.
Property fraud can occur if someone records a fraudulent document, for example a deed, in a county records office, making it appear as though the actual owner transferred ownership of the property to a new owner.
While property fraud can happen to anyone, perpetrators of property fraud often target the elderly, people in long-term care facilities, absentee property owners, and owners who spend large parts of the year out of town. In some cases, victims of these fraudulent activities are unaware their homes or identity have been stolen.
To help protect Linn County property owners from this type of fraud, the Recorder's Office offers Property Fraud Alert, a free service that notifies property owners by email, text, or phone if a document with their name is recorded in the Linn County Recorder's Office.
"We encourage all homeowners to participate in the Property Fraud Alert service," Linn County Recorder Carolyn Siebrecht said. "There is no fee and enrolling takes seconds. Tracking your recordings is the quickest way to know if you are a victim of property fraud using a fraudulently recorded document. If you suspect fraud has occurred, please contact local authorities to make an official report, and work with your attorney to begin the recovery process."
While Property Fraud Alert cannot prevent fraud, it provides an early warning so property owners can act quickly if they get notified of possible fraudulent activity against their property.
Sign Up
Sign up for Property Fraud Alert online or call 800-728-3858. Linn County residents can also visit the Linn County Recorder's website or call the Recorder's Office with questions at 319-892-5420.