The City of Alexandria announced on Mar. 11 that a sophisticated phishing scam is targeting permit applicants and property owners across the country, using realistic emails to impersonate city officials and request fraudulent payments.
This alert is important for residents and businesses who may be at risk of falling victim to these scams. The scheme involves criminals accessing publicly available permit information, such as property addresses and case numbers, to craft convincing messages. These emails often include fake invoices demanding payment for so-called “outstanding fees” through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or mobile payment apps like Venmo or Zelle.
The city advises recipients to check email domains carefully, noting that official communications will only come from addresses ending in @alexandriava.gov. Any requests for payment via wire transfer or peer-to-peer apps should be treated with suspicion, as the city does not accept these methods for permit payments. If an unexpected invoice arrives, individuals are urged not to reply but instead call the relevant department directly using published phone numbers.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspected fraudulent emails by submitting a ticket or calling Alex311 at 703.746.4311. The city also reminds the public that it provides services within its defined boundaries as an independent city according to the official website. Alexandria operates under a council-manager form of government where the City Council selects a manager for daily operations according to the official website.
Alexandria incorporates racial and social equity into its policies and decisions in order to foster fair outcomes in the community per the official website. The city’s museums and historic sites contribute to community identity by interpreting local social and cultural history according to the official website, while facilities like the Alexandria Black History Museum document African American heritage as noted on the official website. Additionally, partnerships through bodies such as the Alexandria Archaeological Commission support archaeological research and preservation efforts according to the official website.
The City of Alexandria thanks residents for their vigilance in helping keep the community secure.
