ABQ Times

Bernalillo County's Planning and Development Services Department has issued a warning about a scam targeting residents with zoning requests. The scam involves emails directing recipients to wire over $25,000 to an email address not associated with the county.

At least one resident received such an email, which appeared to be from the county’s Planning & Zoning Commission. The email thanked them for their application and mentioned that personal information might have been accessed through meeting agendas on the county's website, bernco.gov.

The fraudulent email stated that "to finalize the approval process … it is essential that you settle the attached invoice for the county compensation fee." It included a PDF labeled “Invoice,” featuring the county seal, listing charges totaling $25,200. Payment was instructed via wire transfer to planning.bernco@usa.com, an address not linked to Bernalillo County.

The county is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to take action and is reaching out to individuals who may have received similar emails. Bernalillo County emphasizes that legitimate payments are only accepted in person at county offices, through their official website, or by mailing a check to recognized departments. They do not request wire transfers or conduct financial transactions via email.

Residents are encouraged to call 505-468-7777 with questions about communication authenticity, to report suspected scam emails, or verify required county fees.