DeKALB — The DeKalb Police Department has issued a warning about an unemployment and identity fraud scam that has recently affected Illinois residents. The scam involves fraudulently using individuals’ identities to file for Illinois unemployment benefits. 

If an individual receives an unemployment benefit debit card in the mail and did not file for unemployment benefits, the DeKalb Police Department advises them not to activate the card, and to check their credit report for suspicious activity, according to a Monday DeKalb Police Department news release. 

Individuals who received an unsolicited unemployment benefits debit card should file a police report, according to the news release. Residents who have been affected by this scam should also contact the Illinois Department of Employment Security at (800) 814-0513 or visit ides.illinois.gov to report the fraudulent debit card.