Scam Alert: Stay Safe from Phishing Emails

Protect yourself - don't fall victim to phishing email scams!

A phishing scam has targeted community members who have recently interacted with the City of Raleigh. These fraudulent emails appear to come from the Planning and Development Department requesting payment. These messages are designed to trick you into clicking on malicious links or providing personal and financial information.

Follow these safety recommendations

Pause before you click.
Be cautious of unexpected emails, links, or attachments, especially those creating urgency or requesting sensitive information.

Look for urgent or threatening language.
Scammers often use high-pressure words in the email to get you to act without thinking.

Check the sender's email address.
The email may look official, but comes from a suspicious or unofficial address. Emails from the Permit and Development Portal end in @raleighnc.gov. This recent phishing email was sent from [email protected], an email address not associated with the City.

Hover over links in the email before you click on them.
The text might seem like it is going to a legitimate website, but the actual URL is different.

Be suspicious of requests for personal data.
The City of Raleigh will never ask for your Social Security Number, bank account information, or passwords by email.

What to do if you receive a suspicious email

• Do not reply or click on any links.
• Do not open any attachments.
• Report the email as spam or phishing and/or delete the email immediately.

If you are curious whether you have an outstanding invoice, you can access the City's official Permit and Development Portalor call the Customer Service Center at 919-996-2500.