BATH, NY (WENY) -- A new tool launched in Steuben County aims to help property owners protect themselves from fraud.

People who own property in Steuben County can now sign up for an online fraud alert service. According to the county clerk, property fraud is an issue that's on the rise nationwide, and this tool can help give people the peace of mind to ensure there are no fraudulent documents filed in their name.

The service is provided by Search IQS; a software program that already provides records management for the county. 

It's free to sign up; all you need to provide is an email address and a name.

"When a deed or a mortgage is recorded in the [Steuben] county clerk's office, if individuals wish to sign up for this fraud alert, they would receive this email indicating that a document had been filed in their name and hopefully, it's a valid one. If not, it would be a notice and red flag for them," explained county clerk, Judith Hunter.

The service is already available in many counties across New York, including Broome and Yates counties locally. 

People who are interested in signing up for the fraud alert system can do so here.