Wagoner County Clerk, Lori Hendricks announced that her office is now offering fraud alert notifications through their website at no cost to the citizens of Wagoner County.

“According to the FBI, property and mortgage fraud is the fastest growing crime in America, costing property owners over $200 million in 2020 alone. It is as simple as someone recording a fraudulent document against your property, making it appear as though they own it.” said Hendricks. “Then they obtain a mortgage against the property and the rightful owner does not usually find out until they receive a notice of foreclosure.”

Piloted by Tyler Technologies Eagle Recorder, Eagle Fraud Guard is a way to help property owners prevent becoming the victim of property fraud. Eagle Fraud Guard is a free alert system that will send a notification any time a document with the property owner’s name is recorded at the County Clerk’s office. It is as simple as registering a name or business name, in the system. Then, when a document is recorded with that information, a notification is sent via email. This gives the owner an early warning of fraud being committed, and an opportunity to take action to prevent further fraud.

“There are many programs out there that are similar, but they all charge a monthly fee.” Hendricks said. “We are providing this service at no cost to anyone who wants to participate.”

Typically, the most vulnerable for this type of crime are those with high equity and no mortgage, and those who own properties which they do not personally occupy, such as rental homes, vacation homes or investment properties. Older Americans are particularly at risk, but this program allows citizens to take a more proactive approach to preventing fraud against their property.

To participate, property owners will need to register for Eagle Fraud Guard at https://wcerecording.com/web/