Santa Cruz County’s new alert system aims to stop property fraud before it happens

Santa Cruz County has launched a new alert system to help property owners protect themselves from real estate fraud.

The free service, called Fraud Notify, sends email alerts to residents whenever a document is recorded under their name. The county’s Recorder’s Office says the program is designed to give homeowners an early warning if a fraudulent or unauthorized document, such as a fake deed or lien, is filed.