Illinois Housing Authority Alerts Residents of Dangerous Scam

A new online scam is targeting some of the most vulnerable residents in Illinois, and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is warning about what to be aware of.

New Illinois Section 8 Scam Is Using a Fake Facebook Page

According to an alert from the IHDA, a false Facebook page created a post acting as if they are the Housing Authority or a similar housing entity and are offering a Section 8 voucher.

The scam "encourages residents to provide their information through a fraudulent link or to visit the IHDA office in person."

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In the press release, the IHDA said it is not one of their programs, and the IHDA "has not created an advertisement for Section 8 housing, and it does not endorse any such solicitation."

IHDA is asking those who are seeking public housing to be on the lookout for any suspicious websites or social media posts and to report any unusual interactions to the proper authorities.

If you've already given information to one of these fraudulent sites or paid a fee to them, a police report should be filed, as well as reports with the Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division and the Federal Trade Commission.

If you are seeking information about Illinois' Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, here's some important information from the IHDA to keep from being taken advantage of by online scams.

• Contact your local public housing authority to see if they are accepting applications for Section 8 housing, or how to apply for a waiting list.
• Housing authorities do not charge fees to join a waiting list.
• Never give your Social Security Number, credit card number, or other personal information out on a website you find through an online search.
• Contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency to see what local assistance may be available.
• Search for an affordable housing unit near you through the ILHousingSearch.org website.