The City of Sanibel issued a fraud alert this week to caution property owners of an attempted scam.
Recently, an applicant for a City of Sanibel development permit received a fraudulent invoice through email stating that the applicant’s permit was approved and requested payment through a wire transfer.
The fraudulent email used a City of Sanibel employee’s name and included information to make the invoice appear official and legitimate (see below). Fortunately, the applicant notified City staff, and the Sanibel Police Department is investigating.
The City of Sanibel will never request payment through a wire transfer. If anyone receives a similar email with an invoice from the City requesting money to be transferred via wire transfer, please notify the Sanibel Police Department by calling (239) 472-3111.
Anyone can fall victim to fraud. Cyber-criminals use deception, urgency, and emotional manipulation to steal personal information or money through fraudulent targeted phishing scams.
How to Protect Yourself
• Verify Requests: Never provide personal or financial information
• Stay Skeptical: Legitimate organizations will never demand payment via wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid gift cards.
• Hang Up & Call Back: Hang up and call the agency or company directly
• Avoid Unsolicited Tech Support: Do not allow remote access to your computer
• Check Before You Click: Do not click on unknown links; go to the official websites
• Guard Your Money: Request for wire transfers, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency is a red flag for fraud.
If you suspect a scam, trust your instincts and report potential cybercrimes to the Sanibel Police Department at (239) 472-3111.
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