By Lisa Glauber Shippel, Esq.
I often receive questions from friends and clients about Title Lock—a service heavily promoted on TV and radio that claims to protect homeowners from title theft. The ads often sound alarming, warning that someone could take out a loan using your property title without your knowledge, potentially leading to foreclosure. Understandably, that kind of threat grabs attention. But before you pay for another monthly subscription, it’s important to know the facts—and the free alternatives available to Georgia residents.
What Is Title Fraud?
Title fraud, also known as deed fraud or property title theft, happens when someone illegally changes ownership of a property, usually by forging a deed, and then uses that false ownership to secure loans or even attempt to sell the property. While this crime is real, it’s important to note that actual instances are rare, especially in states with strong recording and verification systems.
What Title Lock Really Does
Title Lock and similar services do not prevent title theft. They aren’t insurance products and don’t fix fraudulent activity if it occurs. What they offer is monitoring and alerts—they notify you if a change is recorded against your property title. But in Georgia, you can get that same benefit without paying a subscription fee.
Georgia’s Free Alternative: FANS
In Georgia, property records are publicly maintained by the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA). They offer a free tool called the Filing Activity Notification System (FANS).
Here’s how it works:
- You visit www.gsccca.org and navigate to the FANS registration page.
- You register your name (and optionally other variations or family members’ names).
- If a document is filed under your name, such as a deed or lien, you receive an email or text alert.
- If you receive an alert that you weren’t expecting, you can immediately contact your county clerk’s office or legal counsel to investigate.
This proactive tool gives Georgia residents peace of mind, without the monthly cost. It’s an easy step you can take today to stay informed and protected.
Additional Steps for Peace of Mind
Periodically check your property records online via the GSCCCA site or your county clerk’s website.
Safeguard personal information to prevent identity theft, which is often a precursor to deed fraud.
If you’re ever concerned, consult with a real estate attorney to review your property records and ensure everything is in order.
Bottom Line:
Taking a few minutes to register with FANS is a smart way to stay informed and protect your property from potential fraud
Don’t Wait—Take Action Today
If you’re a homeowner, go to www.gsccca.org and sign up now. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re the first to know if anything changes with your property records.
📞 Connect with us today.
info@lisashippellaw.com
678-615-3349