Scams, thefts common this time of year

As shoppers are out and about looking for Christmas bargains, so, too, are scammers. But it's not presents they are looking for, only unsuspecting victims.

Each year Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan receives hundreds of complaints from consumers who have been ripped off. But during the Christmas season is when Madigan 's office sees a spike in complaints and ID theft and charity scams top the list.

"ID theft is the number one complaint with the Attorney General's office. Holiday shopping season is high time for this kind of crime," said Madigan. "So it is important consumers protect themselves either if they'Sre out shopping or online buying gifts."

Madigan said …