Property fraud is on the rise. Also known as deed or title fraud, this type of fraud occurs when someone illegally files documents against your property without your knowledge. Examples include transferring ownership, taking out loans against your home, or altering property records. These filings can appear correct at first glance before fraud is detected which is why early awareness is critical. It is an increasing concern for homeowners, but there are free tools available in many counties that can help you stay informed and protected.

At Southern First, protecting our clients is our top priority. While our team is always hard at work proactively monitoring your accounts, we also want to share additional resources available to you. 

Upstate, South Carolina

Greenville County– Free Fraud Alert Available
Greenville County offers FraudSleuth, a free fraud alert service designed to help protect home and land owners. By signing up, you can receive an email notification when a document is recorded under your name - an easy way to monitor activity tied to your property and quickly identify anything that may be unauthorized or suspicious.

Spartanburg County - Free Fraud Alert Available
Spartanburg County offers a Property Fraud Alert System that notifies property owners when documents are filed under their name. This free service provides an additional layer of awareness and allows homeowners to respond quickly to potential fraud.

Anderson County – Record Search and Assistance Available
Anderson County provides public assistance for reviewing property records. This free resource allows property owners to monitor records and stay aware of potentially fraudulent activity through timely access to information.

Midlands, South Carolina

Richland County – Record Access
Richland County maintains and preserves real estate records for public use. Recording documents officially protects your ownership rights under South Carolina law.

Lexington County – Record Search and Assistance Available
Lexington County provides online tools to search for property records. The office also assists the public in obtaining copies of property and financial documents.

Lowcountry, South Carolina

Berkeley County – Free Fraud Alert Available
Berkeley County offers a free property monitoring system through its records portal. By signing up for “Recording Alert,” you will receive email notifications when documents are recorded under your name. This allows you to respond quickly if needed.

Charleston County– Record Access Available
Charleston County records and maintains property-related documents including deeds, mortgages, and liens. While a fraud alert system is not specifically offered, the office provides access to records and certified copies to help property owners stay informed.

Dorchester County – Free Fraud Alert Available
Dorchester County provides a free Recording Fraud Alert system. Property owners receive email notifications when documents are filed under their name, helping detect potential fraud early.

Triangle, North Carolina

Wake County – Free Fraud Alert Available
Wake County offers Fraud Guard, which sends email alerts when documents are recorded under your name, providing early warning of potential fraud.

Triad, North Carolina

Guilford County – Free Fraud Alert Available
Guilford County provides a Property Fraud Alert system to help you stay updated on filings associated with your name and respond quickly if needed.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Mecklenburg County– Record Search Available
Mecklenburg County allows users to search real estate records online, offering a valuable resource for monitoring property activity.

Atlanta, Georgia

DeKalb County– Community Assistance Available
DeKalb County provides community support services and assistance through its county system. Residents can access help and information by visiting the county website or dialing 311.

Cobb County - Record Access Available
Cobb County offers a property fraud alert which is used as an electronic notification service that alerts a subscriber via email every time your personal or business property information is searched. Regularly reviewing your property records can help you identify any unauthorized fillings.

An Important Note…

Fraud alert systems do not prevent documents from being recorded but they do provide early notifications, which make a significant difference. Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect your property.

Taking a few minutes to explore these resources and enrolling in a fraud alert system where available can make a meaningful difference in safeguarding your home and land.

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