Hopkinton Residents Warned Of Planning And Zoning Scam

HOPKINTON, RI — Scammers are targeting applicants seeking planning and zoning approvals, the Hopkinton police warned.

"The Town of Hopkinton is alerting the public to a scam targeting applicants seeking planning and zoning approvals," a post on the Hopkinton Police Departmen Facebook page said.

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"Several applicants and their representatives throughout the state have reported receiving fraudulent emails and invoices that appear to come from the Town’s Planning Board," the post said.

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The deceptive messages include the town logo, contain actual information about active applications and list itemized fees that "appear legitimate," according to the post.

"However, the fees and payment instructions are fraudulent," the post said, noting the town of Hopkinton will "never ask applicants to wire money or make payments through unofficial channels."

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The post said the town "urges all applicants to verify any suspicious communication by contacting the Planning Department at 401-377-7770 and Zoning Department at 401-377-7771 directly before making a payment."

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The post also recommended those who believe they have been victimized to contact their local police department as well as the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office at 401-274-4400.

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