SPRINGFIELD – As the income tax filing deadline nears, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is urging residents to protect their personal and financial information when filing tax returns. Raoul warned of increased scams during tax season, including fraudulent tax preparers and identity theft. He encouraged taxpayers to research tax preparers, check their qualifications, and use free resources like the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service and Free File program. The Attorney General also advised individuals to carefully review all tax documents, including e-signatures, to avoid being deceived into signing unnecessary forms or paying excessive fees.