Rapid City officials are warning businesses and residents about a email scam that has resurfaced that falsely claims to be from the City’s Planning Commission and seeks immediate payment through wire transfers.
City planning officials reported four recent incidents involving fake invoices sent to businesses. The emails appear legitimate, using the City seal, staff names, signature blocks and invoice numbers, and claim payment is required for development applications or permits.
“This is a scam,” said Community Development Director Vicki Fisher. “The City’s Planning Commission does not email or send correspondence seeking payment, nor does it request immediate wire transfers of funds.”
Officials noted the latest fraudulent emails originate from addresses ending in @usa.com, not official City government domains. Legitimate City emails come from @rcgov.org, @rcplib.org or @themonument.live.
The City advises recipients not to open links or attachments from suspicious emails and to contact the Community Development Department directly if they receive a payment request related to permits or applications.
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