The Town of Hillsborough has issued a scam alert warning residents about a new email phishing scheme in which scammers pose as the town’s planning and economic development division, requesting permit fee payments. These fraudulent emails may appear to reference actual home improvement projects and originate from suspicious addresses like “plannings.us” or “[email protected],” rather than the official “hillsboroughnc.gov” domain or the legitimate “[email protected].” The town advises recipients to verify requests by contacting them via previously used phone numbers or email addresses—or by calling the town’s main line at 919-732-1270—and to refrain from replying directly to suspicious messages. The posts also highlight common FTC scam signals—such as urgent pressure, spoofed identities, or unconventional payment requests—and urge victims to report scams to the FTC, their state attorney general, and the imitated organization, plus visit the FTC’s “What to Do If You Were Scammed” page for guidance on possible restitutionhillsboroughnc.gov.
Prevention Recommendations
Verify authenticity: Always confirm fee-related emails through trusted contact channels—such as the town’s website, phone number (919-732-1270), or previously known staff emails.
Avoid replying: Never reply to emails that request payment instructions via response.
Recognize scam traits: Be alert to spoofed domains, urgent demands, and atypical payment methods—common tactics called out by the FTChillsboroughnc.gov.
Report quickly: If unsure or targeted, report the email to the town, the FTC (via ReportFraud.ftc.gov), or your state attorney general.
Educate others: Share this alert with neighbors and community members to raise awareness.
Helpful Online Resources
ReportFraud.ftc.gov – Submit scam reports directly to the Federal Trade Commission.
FTC’s “What to Do If You Were Scammed” page – Offers steps for potential recovery or prevention of further damagehillsboroughnc.gov.
Town of Hillsborough Contact Page – Use validated contact information to confirm legitimate communications.
State Attorney General’s Office – Many provide local scam-reporting tools and tips.
Advice for Caregivers to Parents
Explain the threat: Let them know that scammers may mimic official-looking town communications asking for money.
Demonstrate how to verify: Show them how to use the town’s official website or call the known phone number (919-732-1270) rather than reply to a suspicious email.
Set up a safe-check routine: Encourage them to ask you or another trusted person to review any unexpected fee requests before taking any action.
Share scam signs: Teach them to spot warning signals like strange email domains, urgent “you must pay now” language, or unusual payment methods.
Offer emotional support: Let them know it’s okay to pause and ask questions—these tactics are designed to make people act in haste.
Help report scams: Assist them in reporting suspected scams through the FTC or appropriate state channels.
