The Town asked me to alert readers to not fall prey to scammers who target applicants for municipal permits. The warning is based on a scam in which emailers notify that permits are approved and provide fraudulent payment links to proceed.
The most important details to know are:
The Town of Southborough will NEVER request wire transfers or online payments through unfamiliar links or unofficial communication methods.
All legitimate Town communications come from email addresses ending in @southboroughma.gov, and all payments for permits must be made directly through the Town’s official website, OpenGov, or in person at Town offices.
For those who want more details, especially anyone who worries they may have been victimized, here is the full announcement below:
Town of Southborough – Alert About Permit-Related Email Scam
The Town of Southborough is warning residents, contractors, and local businesses about an active email scam involving fraudulent requests for payment related to municipal permits. Scammers are sending fake emails that appear to notify recipients that their permit has been approved and instructing them to wire money or make online payments through unofficial links. These emails do NOT come from the Town of Southborough and are designed to trick recipients into sending funds to fraudulent accounts.
The individuals sending these scam emails are using information that is publicly accessible on the Town’s website where agendas and permit-related documentation are posted in accordance with state Open Meeting Law. All Town resources and systems remain secure.
The Town of Southborough will NEVER request wire transfers or online payments through unfamiliar links or unofficial communication methods.
All legitimate Town communications come from email addresses ending in @southboroughma.gov, and all payments for permits must be made directly through the Town’s official website, OpenGov, or in person at Town offices.
What residents should do:
- Do NOT send money or respond to suspicious emails requesting payment for permits.
- Check the sender’s email address – official messages will always come from @southboroughma.gov
- Verify any payment request by contacting the relevant Town department directly by using phone numbers listed on the Town’s official website.
- Report suspicious emails to the Town of Southborough.
- If you believe you may have been a victim of this scam, please contact the Southborough Police Department at 508-485-2147 to file a report.
