RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Rapid City businesses are once again being targeted by scammers posing as city officials.
The latest scheme uses convincing emails that appear to come from the Rapid City Planning Commission, complete with city branding and fake invoices demanding immediate payment.
City officials say at least four businesses have reported receiving the fraudulent emails this week.
For contractors, developers and business owners who regularly work with city permitting offices, the scam can appear especially convincing because it references applications and fees commonly associated with development projects.
Officials stress that legitimate city employees will never request payment through immediate wire transfers or threaten to delay permits over email.
Instead, businesses are encouraged to verify any unexpected payment and check in with the Community Development Department before taking action.
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