The “American Dream” has always been a family purchasing a home and putting their personal touch on it.

It is a monumental step that offers a lifetime of memories and treasures.

Unfortunately, there are individuals at work who are turning the dream and other property transactions into a nightmare.

Property fraud is one of the fastest growing white-collar crimes in America. Scammers are obtaining a title to a property or changing records illegally, such as titles, mortgages or other real estate documents, all without the owner’s knowledge.

“Buying a home is the single most important investment in someone’s life. What is happening is truly a crime and my office has witnessed it,” said Lackawanna County Recorder of Deeds Evie Rafalko McNulty. “We can help though.”

The Recorder of Deeds office offers a “Free Fraud Notify Service.” Individuals who sign up receive an automated email alert any time a document is recorded using a person’s name or property parcel number.

Residents can sign-up for the Free Fraud Notify Service here.

Additional information is also provided on this site.

McNulty’s office has already worked with residents who have been scammed, involving lots, homes or various transactions. She also explained that property owners can visit the Recorder of Deeds office to review their property records, confirm their mailing address for tax bills and official notices, and secure help to contact law enforcement to report any suspicious activity or transactions.