Liquor license holders: Beware of phishing scam

For Immediate Release
July 8, 2026

The City of Madison Clerk's Office is aware of sophisticated phishing scams involving fraudulent emails to liquor license holders. Scammers are using publicly available application and license information to identify potential victims and make the communications appear legitimate. Victims are instructed to pay invoices for license fees via wire transfer, peer-to-peer payment, or cryptocurrency.

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's fraudulent.

Paying license fees

The City of Madison never requests payments via wire transfer or with cryptocurrency.

Legitimate license fees can be paid:

• In-person at City offices
• With a check via the mail

• Over the phone with the City Treasurer

Independently verify

If you have any questions about the legitimacy of a request for payment, or the status of a license, please reach out directly to the Clerk's Office.

Contact information

Clerk's Office

City Treasurer