Consumer Tips
Help with Electric Bills
- ComEd CARE Program
Financial assistance may be available for qualifying residents.
Check eligibility and apply through ComEd.
Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
- Identity Theft Guide
https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-central
Learn how to:
- Spot warning signs
- Protect your personal information
- Respond if your identity is stolen
Online Shopping Safety
Shopping online is convenient, but scams are common. Use these tips to stay safe:
Before You Buy
- Shop from trusted websites only
- Look for “https” and a lock icon in the address bar
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true
Protect Your Devices
- Keep your phone and computer updated
- Use antivirus software
- Turn on your firewall
Use Strong Passwords
- At least 8 characters
- Mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
- Use a different password for each site
Avoid Common Scams
- Don’t click suspicious emails or texts
- Ignore pop-ups offering prizes or gift cards
- Never share personal or financial info over email or text
Where You Shop Matters
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for purchases
- Don’t use public computers for online shopping
How You Pay Matters
- Use a credit card (more protection than debit cards)
Keep Records
- Save receipts and confirmation emails
- Check your statements for unfamiliar charges
If You Have a Problem
Start by contacting the seller directly. If the issue isn’t resolved, you can file a complaint:
- Illinois Attorney General
https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov - USA.gov (Illinois Consumer Agencies)
https://www.usa.gov/state-consumer/illinois - Better Business Bureau
https://www.bbb.org - Federal Trade Commission
https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
More Safety Resources
- CISA (US-CERT Tips)
https://www.cisa.gov - Federal Trade Commission
https://consumer.ftc.gov - Privacy Rights Clearinghouse
https://www.privacyrights.org - Internet Crime Complaint Center
https://www.ic3.gov - Smartphone Security
https://www.fcc.gov/smartphone-security