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The FBI is warning of an email phishing scheme that is affecting agencies nationwide. Some agencies are reporting phishing emails being distributed to applicants with active permits. The scammers use publicly available permit information to identify potential victims. These emails claim fees are owed and that their permits or hearings will be delayed or denied if fees are not paid.
As of April 14, 2026, the City of Bellingham’s Permit Center had received one report of an applicant receiving a scam email matching this description. Please be aware that the only way we will ever ask you to make an online payment is through our eTRAKiT system.
What to do if you receive a suspicious email related to your permit application:
- Do not open any attachments or click on any links.
- Call the Permit Center staff member assigned to your project or call the City of Bellingham’s Permit Center at (360) 778-8300 to alert us to this concern and verify whether we need payment or further information. We will provide you with safe ways to submit payment or more information if needed.
- You are encouraged to file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
- Please DO NOT forward the emails to us. Phishing emails can be dangerous and you should not recirculate them.
The FBI has issued an announcement related to this phishing scheme. Click here to read the FBI announcement and to learn how to file a complaint through their Internet Crimes Complaint Center.
