News 12 at 6, June 10, 2008

The mortgage crisis is reaching epidemic levels. Mortgage fraud is a big part of the problem, but help could be on the way. South Carolina is providing some help to fight it.

Mortgage fraud is a huge problem across the country and also right here where you live. And with all the problems with the mortgage industry and the foreclosures, things might get worse.

South Carolina is taking some steps to keep you safe from housing related scams and fraud. It's called the Mortgage Fraud Hotline and it was set up by the South Carolina Attorney General's Office.

It's there for you to call if you think you've been a victim of mortgage fraud or a mortgage related scam. The idea is that something like this will cut down on criminal acts and thus cut its own costs for everyone else since costs from crimes like these are passed along to all of us.

Starting today, you can call 1-(800) 553-7723 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. It's there for you, so give it a call.