Boston, MA – Massachusetts State Police are warning residents and businesses about a rise in highly convincing scam emails impersonating local permitting and zoning offices, targeting people in the middle of permit and application processes.
According to the Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Fusion Center, the messages often use real staff names, official-looking logos, and detailed invoices designed to pressure applicants into sending fraudulent payments. The emails may claim a permit or application has been “approved pending payment,” then attach a realistic invoice listing fees such as application review, processing, or public notice.
Authorities say the scammers commonly request wire transfers, ACH payments, or “settlement instructions” via email, and may urge recipients to reply directly for payment details. Some messages also insist checks are not accepted and warn that delays could impact a permit.
State police recommend residents take several steps to protect themselves:
- Verify the sender’s email domain. Official government emails typically come from domains like .gov or .ma.us, not free public email services.
- Do not wire money based only on an email request.
- Contact the permitting or zoning office directly using the phone number listed on the town or city’s official website — not a number included in the message.
- Be cautious of unexpected invoices or charges that do not match an expected fee schedule.
If you receive a suspicious email, authorities say do not reply and do not send payment. Report it to your local police department and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov. Tips can also be reported to the Commonwealth Fusion Center at 508-820-2233.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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