RUTLEDGE – In an effort to help protect one of the most valuable assets many residents will ever own, Grainger County Register of Deeds Rick Diamond is encouraging property owners to enroll in a free property fraud alert program and is taking the extra step to personally help them do it.
Diamond along with select members of his staff will host a series of in-person assistance sessions across the county throughout March to help residents sign up for the MyLandAlert property fraud notification system. The program is designed to notify property owners if a document is recorded in their name, offering an early warning in the event of potential fraud.
The free assistance sessions will be held Tuesday, March 3 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Washburn Community Center; Tuesday, March 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Blaine City Hall; Tuesday, March 17 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Thorn Hill Community Center; and Tuesday, March 24 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Bean Station City Hall.
The MyLandAlert program, available at mylandalert.com, is a no-cost service that monitors public land records. When a document such as a deed or mortgage is recorded under a name that has been registered in the system, the property owner receives an email notification. While the program does not prevent fraud from occurring, it serves as an early detection tool so action can be taken quickly if something appears suspicious.
Property fraud has become an increasing concern nationwide, particularly involving vacant land, rental property or homes owned by individuals who may not frequently monitor their property records. Fraudulent deeds can be filed without the owner’s immediate knowledge, potentially creating significant legal and financial complications if left undiscovered.
Diamond said the goal is simple, awareness and prevention through education. By offering in-person help sessions throughout the county, he hopes to make the enrollment process easy and accessible for everyone, especially seniors and residents who may not feel comfortable navigating online systems on their own.
“It’s free and only takes a minute to start protecting your most valued assets,” Diamond has emphasized in promoting the program.
For those unable to attend a session, enrollment can still be completed online at mylandalert.com. Residents may also contact the Grainger County Register of Deeds office at 865-828-3523 for additional information.