Protect Your Home From Deed Fraud
Sign Up For Our Free Notification Service

What is deed fraud?

Deed fraud can occur when a criminal files fraudulent documents attempting to claim ownership of real estate, without the actual property owner's knowledge or consent. Deed fraud can be perpetrated in many ways, including using forgery, coercion, impersonation, or misrepresentation. Criminals may target elderly homeowners, vacant properties, or properties without mortgages.

In 2023, the FBI investigated reports of over 9,500 real estate cybercrimes, resulting in an estimated loss of over $145 million (Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Report 2023).

What can be done to protect my home?

Early detection is the key to resolving instances of deed fraud. Some common warning signs may include: no longer receiving a mailed copy of your property tax bill (sent by the County Collector annually in November), receiving a default notice or other documents regarding a loan you did not take out, or the property being listed for sale without your knowledge.

Additionally, the Boone County Recorder of Deeds' office offers a free notification service to provide timely updates when documents are filed matching your name.

Please complete the following steps to register for notifications:

1. Register For Free Deed Watch Notifications
2. Select Boone County, MO from the dropdown menu.
3. Enter your email address.
4. You will receive an email with a verification code to enter. This may take several minutes to reach your email inbox.
5. Enter the names of individuals or businesses you would like to receive notification about when new documents are filed.

Please Note: The notification service only works for documents filed after you have completed the notification setup process.

What should I do if I believe I am the victim of deed fraud?

If you receive a notification regarding a document being filed, please contact the Recorder of Deeds' office by calling 573-886-4345 for more information regarding the filing.

Please note: The Recorder of Deeds cannot remove a recorded document from the public record without a court order issued by a judge.

If you believe you are the victim of deed fraud, it is recommended you speak with an attorney. You can also report suspected fraudulent documents to local law enforcement, such as the appropriate city police department or the Boone County Sheriff's office.