There's a growing graffiti problem in Rockford that can't be erased. Vandals are using chemicals that etch their symbols into glass.

The so called "art etching" is permanent, so it can't be washed off. The only solution to get rid of the graffiti is to buy a new window.

This is becoming a costly problem for many business owners. But there are ways to prevent it.

"You can limit the possibility of it happening by installing security cameras, additional lighting, and making it more visible from inside so you can see them out there applying it."

Several city employees will clean up graffiti for free so long as it's on the outside of a building and not on windows. To report graffiti, just call 961-3243 and leave a message with the location of the graffiti.