Zoning Department scam reported in Wisconsin

RICHLAND CENTER, Wis (WRCO / WRCE) – There are no reports of this this scam like this in Richland County, but county officials are aware of a fraudulent invoice scam occurring in other Wisconsin counties.

Residents of other counties are receiving fake emails that appear to be official correspondence from their equivalent of a Land Conservation & Zoning Department, directing them to promptly pay an invoice via wire transfer in order to finalize a permit.

According to one county, “the emails and invoices look professional and may even use the names of employees to appear legitimate.”

Red flags that could indicate a suspicious email include:

Suspicious contact information not affiliated with a legitimate county email address. All emails from Richland County will end with @co.richland.wi.us.

Pressure to pay promptly and through a method such as wire transfer. As standard practice Richland County Land Conservation & Zoning Department does not send invoices. People pay with their application or permit.

---