Register of Deeds O’Brien Warns of Deed Scam

Southern Essex District Register of Deeds John O’Brien.

Southern Essex District Register of Deeds John O’Brien.

Contrary to “scam” solicitations, Essex County property owners may receive a copy of their deeds free.

Southern Essex District Register of Deeds John O’Brien warned this week of a “recent rise in the number of scam notices homeowners throughout the county have been receiving in the past few months.” The scam takes place in the form of “Recorded Deed Notice” arriving in the mail by Record Transfer Services of California, offering homeowners a copy of their deed for $83.

“This is outrageous and nothing more than another attempt to rip off the unsuspecting consumer,” O’Brien said. “I am very happy that we have a number of concerned citizens who keep watch so that innocent victims do not fall for this type of scam.” O’Brien said property owners may call the registry’s customer service line at (978) 542-1704 to find out if any notice received is “on the up and up.”

“I take this opportunity to remind all the citizens of Essex County the Southern Essex Registry of Deeds will provide them with a copy of their deed at no charge.” To obtain a free copy of your deed, visit salemdeeds.com, email [email protected] or call the number above.