Happy August, everyone; it’s time for our monthly roundup of upcoming CUB events designed to help you learn more about consumer protections and ways to save on your utility bills. Check out our list of events to see which one catches your eye—including a summer series of money-saving webinars culminating…...
Consumers beware: new wave of text scams targeting Illinois residents
Illinois consumers should be on alert for a recent wave of phishing scams trying to defraud Illinoisans. The fraudsters are claiming to represent multiple state departments, including the Secretary of State. “Phishing” scams use messages disguised as reputable companies to persuade consumers to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit…...
Sources – CUB’s Guide to Phone Choices
AARP, How to Use Zoom to Stay Connected During the Coronavirus, November 18, 2020: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2020/how-to-use-zoom/ ABT Electronics, Telephone Buying Guide: https://www.abt.com/learn/telephone-buying-guide AllConnect, Are you losing money by not bundling? Sales pros chime in!, May 4, 2020: https://www.allconnect.com/blog/bundles-really-better AT&T Business, What is VoIP and how does it work?: https://www.business.att.com/learn/tech-advice/what-is-voip-and-how-does-it-work-.html AT&T, AT&T…...
Ambit Energy: Too Good to Be True?
CUB fields numerous inquiries about energy companies in Illinois, and we’ve heard recent concerns about Ambit Energy. If you’re considering signing up for Ambit as your energy supplier or working as a consultant for Ambit, make sure you understand the terms of your contract. Ambit Energy is a company based…...
Chicago rental assistance deadline extended to June 15
The application period for the Chicago Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) has been extended through June 15. The program, administered through the City of Chicago’s Department of Housing, provides rental assistance to eligible community members who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. ERAP will provide funds of up to…...
Utility Diaries: A Month of Bills in Urbana, Illinois
In Utility Diaries, we look at what different households across Illinois pay in a month for utility expenses. Today’s household consists of two people in a rented house in Urbana. Housing Background Location: Urbana, IL Household Size: 2 people Housing Type: House Rent or Own: Rent Square Footage: 1,215 Year…...
Natural gas prices continue their rise into May
Most major Illinois gas utilities are again increasing their prices, the lingering effects of extreme cold that hit the nation for a brief period over the winter and caused prices in Illinois to skyrocket. A few utilities lowered prices, but most natural gas customers will see their rates go up.…...
