Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon Highlights Fraud Prevention and Veteran Resources During Military Consumer Month (Cook County, IL) – Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon is encouraging veterans, active-duty service members and military families to stay alert against scams during Military Consumer Month while promoting free county programs designed to protect property, preserve military records and provide valuable benefits.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, military consumers reported losing more than $584 million to fraud in 2024. Common scams targeting military families include impostor schemes, fraudulent investment opportunities, fake charities, bogus Veterans Affairs benefit offers and property fraud.
“Those who have served our country should never become targets for fraud,” Gordon said. “Our veterans and military families have earned our gratitude and support, and this office is proud to help protect their homes, preserve their records, and connect them to the benefits they’ve earned.”
The Clerk’s Office is urging residents to be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, text messages and social media messages requesting personal or financial information. Officials also recommend verifying anyone claiming to represent the Department of Veterans Affairs, financial institutions, government agencies or charities before sharing sensitive information, avoiding high-pressure sales tactics or promises of guaranteed returns, regularly monitoring financial accounts and property records, and reporting suspected fraud immediately.
Among the resources available is the Cook County Property Fraud Alert Program, a free service that notifies homeowners by email or phone whenever a document is recorded against their property. The alerts can help identify potentially fraudulent deed transfers or unauthorized liens before criminals are able to steal home equity.
The Clerk’s Office also administers the Military and Veterans Discount Program, which provides veterans and active-duty military personnel with a county-issued identification card that offers discounts at hundreds of participating businesses throughout Cook County. The card can also be used to obtain complimentary or discounted tickets through partnerships with the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Wolves.
Gordon is also encouraging honorably discharged veterans to record their DD-214 military discharge papers with the Clerk’s Office. The service is provided at no cost, includes a complimentary certified copy, and ensures the documents are securely preserved while protecting veterans’ privacy.
“Military Consumer Protection Month is an important reminder to stay vigilant against scams, but protecting veterans is a commitment we make every day,” Gordon said. “Whether it’s helping safeguard a family’s home, preserving vital military records, or connecting veterans with valuable benefits and services, we’re honored to serve those who have served us.”
Additional information about the Property Fraud Alert Program, Military and Veterans Discount Program, DD-214 recording services and other resources is available at cookcountyclerk.com.
Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon Highlights Fraud Prevention and Veteran Resources During Military Consumer Month
