Kodiak Island Borough warns of wire transfer scam targeting zoning applicants

Anyone applying for a Kodiak Island Borough planning and zoning permit should never wire money to pay the fee. The borough's Community Development Department warned Tuesday of a "trending wire transfer scam" aimed at applicants. Payments are due at filing and accepted only in person or over the phone.

Warning signs include a wire transfer request, an incorrect email address, and strange, very large or repeated payment demands. The department's Community Development page states it never sends invoices, billing requests or fee payment instructions by email.

The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center has warned of criminals nationwide impersonating planning officials, citing victims' real permit numbers and addresses before demanding wire transfers, peer-to-peer payments or cryptocurrency.

Anyone contacted about a payment should confirm with the department directly at 710 Mill Bay Road. Zoning compliance permit fees are payable at the cashier's office, Room 104.