The Hardest-Working Paper in America | 
Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Be On Guard

The consumer series “Be On Guard” is reported by the Chicago Sun-Times and made possible through the support of AARP Illinois.

This science kit, the 10-in-1 Incredible Inventions Science Kit, was recalled because paint on the red and blue magnets contains lead and the packaging lacks the required warning labels for magnets and balloons.
News
Consumer advocates warn shoppers of dangerous toys sold online
The latest Public Interest Research Group’s “Trouble in Toyland” report released Thursday outlines the current risk of knock-offs and recalled toys being sold in online marketplaces.
By Manny Ramos
 
Karen Allen (above) of Rogers Park set her father straight that scammers were lying to him about his grandson being in trouble in an effort to steal his money.
Be On Guard
Retirees: How to protect yourself from the grandparent scam and other fraud schemes that target the elderly
These tips can help keep you from losing thousands of dollars the way this Rogers Park woman’s father did at the hands of someone who lied that his grandson was in trouble.
By Alexandria Jacobson
 
aarp_featured_image1.png
Be On Guard
6 types of consumer fraud, and how to avoid them
Through the support of the AARP Fraud Watch Network, the Sun-Times has worked to inform consumers about a variety of scams. Here’s a summary.
By Sun-Times staff
 
aarp_featured_image.png
Be On Guard
Gift-card scams: 7 tips to avoid getting ripped off
The huge popularity of gift cards makes them an attractive target for scammers. Here’s a guide to what you can do to protect yourself.
By Alexandria Jacobson | For the Sun-Times
 
how_to_spot_the_most_common_charity_scams.png
Be On Guard
How to ensure this holiday season that you’re giving to charities, not scammers
Charity scams often pop up around the holidays. Here’s a guide to what you can do to protect yourself.
By Alexandria Jacobson | For the Sun-Times
 
7_tips_to_protect_online_privacy_while_traveling.png
Be On Guard
Traveling for holidays? Stay safely connected at airport, hotel, in rental car
Connecting phones, tablets and computers to unsecured Wi-Fi service can leave holiday travelers vulnerable to scammers, consumer experts warn.
By Alexandria Jacobson | For the Sun-Times
 
imposter_fraud__the_latest_scams_to_know_1.png
Be On Guard
How to spot imposter fraud, what you can do to protect yourself
Older people are often targeted by imposter scams. Here’s a guide to what you can do to protect yourself.
By Alexandria Jacobson | For the Sun-Times
 
be_on_guard_part_two.png
Be On Guard
How military veterans can protect themselves from scammers who target them
Vets are targeted by a variety of fraud scams. Here’s a guide to what you can do to protect yourself.
By Alexandria Jacobson | For the Sun-Times
 
7_steps_to_protect_your_identity1.png
Be On Guard
How to avoid identify theft and keep your data safe
To protect yourself from phishing scams and identity theft, here’s a guide to what you can do.
By Alexandria Jacobson | For the Sun-Times
 
Latest Stories
Woman dead, 2 children critical after car crash in South Deering
Tenant convicted of murdering, dismembering 69-year-old landlord in grisly Northwest Side case
Finding early morel mushrooms is underway
Home next to Obamas' Kenwood home, once linked to Tony Rezko, nearing completion
Menu Planner: Spicy lamb loin chops promise to hit the spot