NEW BRUNSWICK – In an effort to combat the fast-growing crime of property and mortgage fraud, Middlesex County Clerk Nancy Pinkin encourages property owners to protect their property and mortgage with the Middlesex County Clerk’s Office Property Alert Service.
“Scams are often committed against property owners in the form of fake deeds or liens, which can go unnoticed for years,” Pinkin said.
The free service allows subscribers to be notified via email alerts whenever a document is recorded in the Clerk’s Office with data that matches the property legal description – municipality, block and lot – or party name, according to a press release through Middlesex County on Aug. 29.
“Keeping with our County’s commitment to serve our residents, I am pleased we can offer this free program,” County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said. “Not only does this service allow residents to protect themselves and their properties, but it can be a valuable tool to protect an elderly loved one from scams. Share this information with friends or relatives who reside in Middlesex County so they can protect themselves from fraud too.”
Pinkin said “while our Property Alert Service can’t prevent property fraud, it can ensure residents are notified in a timely fashion when documents are filed for a specific property or an individual’s name, ultimately helping users identify unauthorized or fraudulent activity.”
County residents who find themselves as victims of fraud can call the Middlesex County Clerk’s Office at 732-745-3364 or 732-745-3365 and they can also call the Middlesex County Office of Consumer Affairs to lodge a complaint at 732-398-2300.
For information about the Property Alert Service and all Middlesex County Clerk programs and services, visit https://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/