Tools to assist homeowners:

The Lake County Recorder's office has implemented an additional service for homeowners to use to fight against identity theft and mortgage fraud. This new 24/7 service allows residents to sign up to receive an email or text, alerting them when certain documents have been recorded against their name or property. "Property and mortgage fraud is the fastest growing white-collar crime," Recorder Mary Ellen Vanderventer said. Residents are encouraged to sign up for property check alerts at: www.lakecountyil.gov/recorder. For more information, call (847) 377-2575.