The Lincoln Police Department has issued an alert of ongoing attempts by scammers to pose as the City of Lincoln Planning Department. Public Information Manager Erika Thomas says they learned in May that scammers began sending fake invoices to developers and applicants listed on the planning department website in the spring.
“LPD is not aware of anyone paying the invoices so there has been no known loss of money to the city or any applicant,” Thomas says. Contact information has since been removed from the
website.
On July 16, police took another report from city planning regarding a citizen receiving an email and letter in the mail claiming they owed almost $5,000 in various fees for a construction project. “When it was reported to city planning, they informed the individual the email and letter were fake and no money was sent.”
Thomas says in this incident it appears the scammers spoofed city emails and contact information to appear legitimate. “We ask everyone to remain vigilant and always independently verify requests for payment.”
She says the individual contacted city planning directly and was able to avoid paying the fraudulent request. Thomas is asking residents to report any further incidents to City Planning and LPD for investigation.