Worcester County Government Warns About Email Scams

Worcester County officials are warning the public about an email scam designed to trick residents and business owners involved in the permitting and plan review processes into wiring money for alleged fees. The scammers impersonate Development Review and Permitting (DRP) staff members and claim the recipient must pay a fee without delay. DRP Director Jennifer Keener says several individuals in their business community have received emails requesting payment for actual projects going through the review process. She adds that fortunately, it’s a tight-knit community, so recipients have felt comfortable picking up the phone and calling to confirm that the emails in question were in fact scams. If you or anyone you know receives a call or email from someone claiming to be a Worcester county employee and alleging that you owe an unanticipated fee for an application or service, you are urged not to share sensitive information, hit reply, or click any unknown links. Instead, call WCG directly, and staff will be glad to assist you.