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Recorder asks property owners to sign up for free fraud alerts after rise in deed fraud attempts
Summary
The county recorder promoted a free property-fraud alert service (Fiddler) that notifies recorded deed owners when someone attempts to record a deed in their name; the recorder encouraged sign-ups and handed out QR-code materials.
The St. Francois County Recorder’s office urged property owners to sign up for a free property-fraud alert service offered through Fiddler, which notifies recorded-deed owners by phone, text or email if someone files a deed in their name.
Recorder staff said the service does not prevent a deed from being recorded if it meets filing requirements under state law, but it provides early notice so an owner can take immediate steps. The recorder’s office described several recent fraudulent-deed tactics — including targeting vacant properties and fraudulent notarizations — and said early notification gives owners time to investigate and respond before lenders take action.
The recorder demonstrated a QR code linking to the sign-up and said the county has printed handouts and posted information on the recorder’s Facebook page. County officials said the alert service is free and recommended owners who have recorded deeds in the county sign up so they will receive near-immediate notification of suspicious activity.
Officials said the recorder’s office remains obligated to record documents that meet state statutory filing requirements and that the alert system is an additional protective measure for property owners.
