Press release from the City of Rio Dell:
The City of Rio Dell is warning the public about fraudulent invoices being sent to permit applicants. These scammers are targeting individuals who have recently submitted applications to the Planning Commission by sending fake invoices that request payment via wire transfer.
IMPORTANT: The City of Rio Dell NEVER requests payment via wire transfer for any services.
These fraudulent emails appear to come from city officials and may contain convincing details about your permit application. The emails typically include inflated or fabricated fees and provide wire transfer instructions for payment.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Verify all payment requests directly with the City of Rio Dell by calling our official phone number at 707-764-3532.
- Check the sender's email address carefully - fraudulent emails often use addresses that appear similar to official city emails but contain subtle differences.
- Remember that the City of Rio Dell does not accept wire transfers as payment for any services. Official payments are processed through check, money order, cash, card or online payment via the portal on the City’s website.
- Be wary of urgent payment demands or threats of permit cancellation if immediate payment is not received.
- Report suspicious emails to the City of Rio Dell and to local law enforcement.
“We are concerned that the frequency and the level of sophistication of these scams is increasing with the development of AI.” Stated Rio Dell Chief of Police Josh Phinney. “It appears that publicly available information recently posted on our website has been pulled and converted into a somewhat official looking invoice. It is important that the general public be aware of this and take appropriate precautions with items submitted via email.”
If you have received a suspicious invoice or believe you may have been targeted by this scam, please contact the Rio Dell Police Department immediately at 707-764-5642.
For legitimate information about permit fees and payment methods, please visit our official website at www.cityofriodell.ca.gov or call 707-764-3532.