Consumer Fraud Division

Special Report: Identity Theft

Most businesses are operated by honest people, but there are some unscrupulous people who prey on trusting consumers. This Web Page contains tips about scams and frauds, what to watch for, and what to do if you are a victim.

If you are a victim of a consumer-related fraud, the State's Attorney's Office, Consumer Fraud Division, may be able to help you recover your losses, prosecute the person or business responsible for the fraud, and prevent other members of the public from falling victim to the scheme.

Primary Mission of the Consumer Fraud Division:
To investigate and prosecute violators of Illinois consumer protection statutes.

Overview of the Consumer Fraud Division
Cook County State's Attorney Richard A. Devine maintains a Consumer Fraud Division for the benefit of consumers who are victimized by unscrupulous persons and businesses. The Division handles a variety of civil and criminal consumer law cases including: home repair, fraud, travel scams, immigration fraud, ruse entry, advance fee loan scams, identity theft and dishonest auto sales. The Division also provides a Consumer Help Line to handle inquiries from the public concerning consumer matters. The Consumer Help Line is staffed by paralegals of the Intake Unit of the Consumer Fraud Division, who are available to answer consumer-related questions, provide appropriate referrals, and offer assistance in filing consumer complaints. Consumers may call (312) 603-8700 during regular business hours from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, to speak to a paralegal in the Intake Unit

The Consumer Fraud Division is a part of the Public Interest Bureau of the Cook County State's Attorney's Office. The Bureau is comprised of the Child Support Enforcement Division, the Community Prosecutions Division, the Consumer Fraud Division, the Environment and Energy Division, the Major Actions Division and the Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Division.

The offices of the Consumer Fraud Division and the Public Interest Bureau are located at 69 West Washington - Suite 700, Chicago, Illinois, 60602 (312) 603-8600.

Our email address is consumer@cookcountygov.com.