A Palos Hills resident checking their bank account earlier this month found something they never expected: a car loan they never took out.
The victim, who lives in the 10900 block of Southwest Highway, spotted the fraudulent auto loan on their Capital One account on March 3.
When they contacted the bank’s fraud department, they were told someone had used their identity to buy a vehicle online. The suspect, using a fake ID, even arranged for a tow truck to pick it up.
Police said the vehicle was purchased through a dealership in Palos Hills but are still investigating how the fraudulent transaction was approved.
Authorities also want to determine whether additional documents should have been required beyond an ID and a credit card.
Palos Hills Deputy Chief Anthony Carraccio said the case raises concerns about how large financial transactions are verified.
“It’s surprising that someone can buy a car with stolen information,” Carraccio said. “It makes you wonder how these companies verify big purchases.”
While this type of fraud isn’t common, Carraccio said cases like this show why it’s important to monitor financial accounts closely.
“If you see something suspicious, call your credit card company first,” he said. “They’ll guide you on what to do, but you’ll need a police report if you want to be refunded.”
He also advised victims to contact credit bureaus and keep a close eye on their credit for at least a year.
“We tell people to check their credit at least once a week,” he said. “I check mine every day, but once a week is a good habit.”
As identity theft tactics grow more sophisticated, police say vigilance is more important than ever.