Seniors often have savings, home equity, and established credit, making them attractive targets. Loneliness and social isolation (especially in winter months) increase vulnerability to romance and phone scams. Scammers use urgency and fear tactics to push quick action without verification.

Seasonal trends, particularly during spring and summer, bring increased risks tied to home improvement projects, property records, and digital communications. Residents should remain alert to common fraud schemes that frequently impact our community. These are the top scams we’re seeing, along with simple ways to protect yourself.

Scammers contact residents by phone, email, or mail pretending to be law enforcement, government agencies (like the IRS or Social Security), or county officials. They demand money or sensitive information and may use spoofed phone numbers that look local. 

Scammers capitalize on spring/summer home projects by offering cheap repairs or storm-related fixes (roofing, gutters, paving) — often unprompted. They ask for large deposits or full payment upfront, do substandard work (or none), then disappear. 

Fraudsters may file fake documents or deeds at the county recorder’s office to make it appear as if they own your property or have the right to sell it. Tazewell County added notary fraud alerts to help catch unauthorized recordings early. 

Scammers send emails, text messages, or social media communications that mimic legitimate companies or providers. Clicking on links can install malware, collect credentials, or steal personal data. 

Identity thieves use stolen personal information to open credit accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, or make unauthorized purchases. They may obtain data through breaches, phishing, or other scams. In Illinois, identity theft is consistently among the top complaint categories.