Scituate ZBA warns applicants about fraudulent emails asking for wire transfers

The Scituate Zoning Board of Appeals opened its July 16 meeting with a warning that applicants have received fraudulent emails instructing recipients to wire money to ‘finalize’ ZBA decisions.

The Chair said the messages include a replica town seal and an incorrect town address and urged anyone who receives such an email not to reply, click links or send payment. “Please be advised that the town of Scituate Zoning Board of Appeals does not charge a fee for issuing or finalizing ZBA decisions,” the Chair said. The board advised affected applicants to report the emails to the police department and notify the ZBA so officials can document the incident and try to prevent further fraud.

The board noted some emails went directly to applicants and, in one reported case, to family members with similar addresses. The Chair added that the town does not conduct financial transactions by wire transfer and that official town business is handled in person, by telephone, by mail or other established channels.

The board asked staff to accept reports of suspicious emails and to coordinate with police as needed. No formal vote was required; the announcement was a public‑safety advisory for applicants and their representatives.