Cyber scammers are targeting Oregonians awaiting permit approvals, according to a warning from the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD). The phishing scheme involves emails posing as local building or planning departments, instructing recipients to wire money after receiving fake project approval notices. The BCD clarified that it does not request payments in this manner and urged the public to be cautious.
According to the Washington County website, scammers are using public records to gather project information and send convincing messages claiming approval and requesting payment. They ask recipients to reply for payment details, then provide wire transfer instructions and request a receipt to be emailed back, claiming it is for transparency and record-keeping.
Washington County Building Official Derrick Moon stated that their office never asks for wire transfers and that communication should occur in person or by phone. Residents receiving such messages are advised to contact the county directly at 503-846-3470 or use the contact information provided in their original permit paperwork.
The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services has released a Flashalert with details about the scam and a sample of the phishing email to help the public recognize similar schemes.
