According to the FBI, property and mortgage fraud is one of the fastest growing white-collar crimes. Scammers file fraudulent deeds, making it appear as if they own the property. These scammers then trick people into giving them money to rent or buy those homes.
This type of fraud can go undetected if the property owner does not periodically check the Official Records where they own property. Although checking does not prevent the actual fraud from occurring, it does provide an early warning.
The Hancock County Registry of Deeds offers a free Recording Notification Service with automated emails. Citizens can request monitoring up to 10 different names or variations per registered email address. When a document is recorded at the Registry of Deeds with a name being monitored, an email will automatically be sent to the email address.
What can I do to protect myself from property fraud?
• Regularly check the Official Records
• If you have vacant property, periodically check it is not illegally occupied
• Ask a trusted person to check your property if away for an extended time
• Do not let mail pile up when you are away
• Make sure your property records such as tax bills, have the correct mailing address
What is the Recording Notification Service (RNS)?
• A free monitoring service to receive alerts if a document is recorded in your name
How does the RNS service work?
• Through the sign-up page (link here), you may enter up to 10 names per email address to be monitored
• If something is recorded in a monitored name, you will receive an email notification
• Notifications are only sent for documents recorded AFTER signing up, not previously recorded
How do I edit the names being monitored?
• On the Recording Notification Service (link here) page, select “Update Subscription” and make the appropriate changes
Can I unsubscribe from the Recording Notification Service?
• Yes, you can unsubscribe at any time using the “Unsubscribe” link on the Recording Notification Service page
Why do fraudulent documents get recorded?
• The Registry of Deeds must record all documents that meet the State of Maine recording requirements. We have no authority to refuse a properly prepared document
If a document is proven fraudulent, can it be removed from the Official Records?
• No, once a document is recorded it cannot be removed
What should I do if I think I may be the victim of property fraud?
• Contact the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office at (207) 667-7575 and/or an attorney
• The Registry of Deeds cannot take legal action on your behalf
Does this service alert me of documents being recorded in other counties?
• No, this service is specific to the Hancock County Registry of Deeds