dpNORTH OLMSTED, Ohio — It’s no secret that online scammers will go to extreme and nefariously creative ways in an attempt to part money from unsuspecting members of the public.
That’s the case in North Olmsted, where the city recently warned the public after becoming aware of phishing/scam emails and invoices being sent to residents and businesses regarding alleged Board of Zoning and Building Appeals (BZBA) variance requests and related payments.
Despite appearing to be official — using fake documents, logos and urgent language — the city is advising community members to not click on suspicious email links.
They also warn not to provide payment or personal information, nor respond to unexpected invoice requests claiming to be from the city.
After receiving any suspicious email, invoice or communication claiming to be from the North Olmsted BZBA, recipients are directed to verify directly with City Hall by calling 440-777-8000.
“That came in to our economic development people, but nothing ceases to amaze us nowadays,” Police Chief Bob Wagner said.
“(Scammers) get ultra creative, especially now that they’re using government entities to do their dirty work or at least make it seem like they’re going to do their dirty work.”
The police chief noted previous scams involving residents seemingly receiving a phone call from a supposed North Olmsted police officer, as well as faked documents from they city’s municipal court.
As for the current BZBA-related scam, Wagner said that so far, his department — which receives between 20 and 40 fraud reports a month — hasn’t identified any victims.
“So very few people would utilize BZBA, but if you cast out 10,000 emails, it only takes one person to make them some money,” he said.
His message to the public is that when receiving any email, correspondence or communication regarding a legal issue, canceled cybersecurity or streaming service account, contact the entity directly.
“You just have to question everything,” he said.
“Don’t give anybody your name, date of birth, Social Security number or any personal information.”
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