Hernandez Warns of Financial Scams during Extended Tax Season

AURORA, Ill. – In order to protect local residents against fraud, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is alerting residents to be cautious of potential scams this tax season that was extended due to the COVID-19 outbreak. 

“Unfortunately even during this pandemic, scammers and other bad actors still try to take advantage of others,” said Hernandez. “It’s crucial that individuals stay informed about what information is real and what is false, and to always use extreme caution if giving out personal information on phone calls or online.”

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced that the state tax filing deadline would be extended from April 15 to July 15, mirroring the tax filing deadline extension at the federal level to give residents more time to file their taxes amid the COVID-19 crisis. Scams are especially prominent during tax season, with scammers using multiple avenues to try to get personal information from individuals like social security numbers, bank account numbers and credit card information. Hernandez is urging residents to be cautious and aware of potential scams, use increased caution about giving out any personal information, regularly update passwords and take care to shred documents with personal and financial details. To learn more about how to avoid fraud or scams, visit the Illinois Attorney General’s website at https://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov.

“Fraud and identify theft are serious issues for not only older residents, but for people of all ages,” said Hernandez. “With the tax season extended, I encourage folks to check in on your loved ones and seniors to ensure they avoid falling victim to scams and frauds during these trying times.”

For more information, please contact Hernandez’s constituent services office at RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.

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