City warns residents about misleading home warranty mailers

Champaign officials say solicitation is not affiliated with the city and urge residents to report concerns.

ShutterstockResidents are encouraged to remain cautious when reviewing mail or other communications that appear official but may be deceptive.

CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The City of Champaign is alerting residents about a misleading mail solicitation that appears to be an official home warranty notice.

City officials say the mailer suggests it is connected to the City of Champaign and claims the recipient’s property was insured by “CHAMPAIGN CITY (IL).” The document urges homeowners to call regarding a home warranty that may be expiring. However, the City does not provide home warranty services and is not responsible for the mailing.

While the mailer includes a disclaimer in English stating that it “is not a bill, but a solicitation,” it does not clearly identify the sender. Officials say that omission could lead some residents to mistakenly believe the notice came from the city.

Residents are encouraged to remain cautious when reviewing mail or other communications that appear official but may be deceptive.

Anyone who believes they may be the victim of a deceptive practice is urged to contact the Champaign Police Department at 217-333-8911. Suspicious mailings can also be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.