Scam alert: Local government impersonation scam spreading nationwide
Aug 18, 2026
The FBI and Center for Internet Security’s Cyber Threat Intelligence Team are warning communities about a new scam where criminals pose as county or city planning departments, zoning officials, and other local government agencies.
Victims report receiving emails claiming that their planning permit, zoning application, or similar document is “under review.” The scam email then directs them to pay a fee through a fraudulent online portal or by wire transfer.
If you receive an email like this, (or anything that feels suspicious), use these tips to protect yourself:
All City of Roseville fees related to Planning or Building services are paid through the Online Permitting Services (OPS) portal or in-person at the Permit Center located on the first floor of the Civic Center at 311 Vernon Street.
Avoid fraudulent links by using the following direct web URL to reach Roseville’s OPS portal: roseville.ca.gov/ops.
If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, please contact the Roseville Police Department’s non-emergency line at (916) 774-5000 so we can assist you.
Stay alert, stay informed, and help spread awareness to keep our community safe.
Victims report receiving emails claiming that their planning permit, zoning application, or similar document is “under review.” The scam email then directs them to pay a fee through a fraudulent online portal or by wire transfer.
If you receive an email like this, (or anything that feels suspicious), use these tips to protect yourself:
- Don’t click on links or download attachments from suspicious emails.
- Check the sender’s email address closely — scammers often use misspellings or random characters to mimic real accounts.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
- Search online for scams related to the business or agency mentioned in the email.
- Ask a trusted friend or family member to take a second look before you respond.
- Never call the phone numbers listed in the suspicious email. Instead, look up the agency’s real number through a trusted website (for example, the official City of Roseville webpage).
- Contact the verified number and ask staff to confirm whether the email is legitimate.
- NEVER send money, click unfamiliar links, or share personal information with an unverified source.
- If the email includes names, employee numbers, or other identifiers, provide that information when you call the legitimate agency so they can verify its authenticity.
All City of Roseville fees related to Planning or Building services are paid through the Online Permitting Services (OPS) portal or in-person at the Permit Center located on the first floor of the Civic Center at 311 Vernon Street.
Avoid fraudulent links by using the following direct web URL to reach Roseville’s OPS portal: roseville.ca.gov/ops.
If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, please contact the Roseville Police Department’s non-emergency line at (916) 774-5000 so we can assist you.
Stay alert, stay informed, and help spread awareness to keep our community safe.