Chelan County warns of email scam targeting Community Development applicants

Chelan County Community Development warned residents about an email scam targeting land-use applicants, after a local resident received a fraudulent invoice for $5,000. The email included specific application details, such as parcel numbers, and utilized the county logo, making it seem legitimate. Director Deanna Walter clarified that the department does not send invoices through email; all fees are to be paid in person or through an online account. Residents are advised to scrutinize emails for signs of phishing, including misspellings and unusual sender addresses. The scam email incorrectly listed the office address and referenced the Planning Commission, raising further red flags.

Walter noted that as public records are easily accessible, these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. The department urged anyone suspecting fraud to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Additionally, residents unsure of an email's legitimacy should reach out to the department at 509-667-6225 for verification.