Email Phishing Scam Involving Planning and Zoning Applications and Permits

For Immediate Release 
April 3, 2026 

The FBI is warning the public about a phishing scam by criminals impersonating city and county officials to solicit fraudulent payments for local government planning and zoning applications and permits. Criminals use publicly available application and permit information to identify potential victims and make the communications appear legitimate. Victims are instructed to pay invoices for fees related to their applications and permits and directed to make payments via wire transfer, peer-to-peer payment, or cryptocurrency. 

The City of Madison is aware of fraudulent emails circulating locally that falsely claim to come from the City of Madison Planning Division Director, or other staff from Planning or Zoning. When this scam emerged last year, the City posted warnings on key webpages related to development and provided details regarding legitimate payment methods when applications are submitted for review by city boards and commissions. Additionally, applicant email addresses have been redacted on certain documents posted online. 

Ways to protect yourself 

Check the email address closely 

The City of Madison will always send emails from a "@cityofmadison.com" address. If you get an email from any other domain, it is fraudulent.  

Paying permit fees 

The City of Madison never requests payments via wire transfer or with cryptocurrency. Please verify the publicly listed phone number and mailing address for City agencies.  

Legitimate permit fees can be paid: 

• Online, through the City of Madison's official Licenses & Permits portal
• In-person at City offices 
• With a check via the mail 
• By credit card over the phone  

Independently verify  

If you have any questions about the legitimacy of a request for payment, or the status of an application's approval, please reach out directly to the City agency handling your application.