RESOURCES — HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

What to do before you sign anything

• Ask how your deed is verified before recording
• Confirm how signatures and notarizations are authenticated
• Use reputable, licensed real estate agents, title, and closing professionals
• Review all documents carefully before signing. Ask for copies before closing, read and review. 
• Keep digital and physical copies of all signed paperwork
   

Why this matters:
The recording stage is when ownership is officially transferred. Verification before this point can prevent fraud before it ever enters public records.

Ongoing steps to protect your property

• Watch for missing mail, especially property tax notices
• Monitor public records periodically by a free recording notification like "Property Fraud Alert."
• Review annual tax statements for accuracy
• Act immediately if something looks wrong or unfamiliar
   

Why this matters:
Many victims only discover fraud months or even years later — early detection can prevent escalation.

Red flags you should never ignore

• You stop receiving property tax or assessment notices
• You receive loan you didn’t authorize
• Your mortgage was released and you did NOT pay it off
• Someone claims to own or manage your property
• You see an ownership change you didn’t approve
   

If any of these occur:
Contact your county recorder and title professional immediately.

Extra steps to protect your new investment

• Ask your title company how they prevent fraudulent deed filings
• Confirm the final deed matches your legal name(s) exactly
• You may receive mail in someone else name 
• Request a copy of the recorded deed after closing
• Ask if your county offers property or deed alert notifications
• Keep your closing documents stored securely
• Be extra alert during the first year after purchase
• A sudden rush of calls from window, or siding companies, or offers for new home owner services if you have owned your home for years
   

Why homebuyers are targeted:
Ownership records are actively changing, and personal information is in motion.

Education helps — prevention stops the damage

• Title fraud is easy to commit and hard to undo
• Strong verification laws could stop fraud before recording
• Deed and notary safeguards could protect homeowners all across the state
   

Knowledge protects individuals.
New Legislation can protect every landowner.

Turn awareness into action

• Learn how notary fraud works
• Protect yourself and your family
• Support strong title fraud protections by state law changes
• Share this information with other land owners in Kansas
   

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