Waukegan, IL – Authorities are warning Lake County residents to be on alert after reports of scam calls from individuals falsely claiming to represent the 211 community resource helpline, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and United Way of Lake County.
Scammers have allegedly been calling Illinois residents, posing as 211 representatives and offering to help pay bills — before requesting money or financial information. Officials stress that 211 Lake County never asks for payment, donations, or banking details.
“Our role is to connect you with verified local resources, not process payments,” United Way of Lake County stated.
Residents are urged to hang up immediately if asked for money or personal information, block the number, and report the call to 211 Lake County at 2-1-1 or 1-855-677-5253. Scams can also be reported to the Federal Trade Commission or local law enforcement.
More information on identifying and reporting 211-related scams is available at 211illinois.org/report-a-211-scam.
Officials remind the public that 211 is a trusted, free resource connecting residents with local aid and community programs — never a payment processor.
