You may already be aware that Property Fraud is an increasing concern for property and homeowners. The recording of a fraudulent deed could result in residents losing their home or property and cause lengthy legal battles. Winnebago County offers a fraud notification system called “Property Fraud Alert – (PFA). This is an effective and simple way to combat property fraud.
PFA FAQs:
- What is Property Fraud Alert (PFA)? – PFA is an online subscription service offered to the public that allows them to have their name monitored within the Register of Deeds office to track possible fraudulent recordings that affect their property. While Property Fraud Alert does not prevent fraud from happening; it provides an early warning system for property owners to take appropriate actions should they determine possible fraudulent activity has taken place.
- Is there a cost for this program? – No, the service is free!
- How do property owners enroll in the program? – They visit the County website or the PFA website and sign up. The process only takes a few minutes!
- How does the PFA work? – Once a property owner enrolls in the program, PFA will detect any instance of a document being recorded in Winnebago County under the owner’s name or similar name. The Property owner will then be notified via phone or email. The owner can then call a number to determine if the recorded document is tied to their property and/or fraudulent and if so, take appropriate action in a timely manner.
- Is property owner information sold for marketing purposes? – No, any information entered into the Property Fraud Alert system is used exclusively for the tracking and notification of recording activity.
Property Fraud Alert website: https://www.propertyfraudalert.com/select
Winnebago County Register of Deeds website: https://www.co.winnebago.wi.us/register-deeds
