BROOKSVILLE – The Hernando County Development Services Department is notifying the public about a recent scam targeting residents and businesses regarding permit fees.
Several residents and businesses have reported receiving fraudulent emails from individuals impersonating Development Services staff. The emails falsely claim that recipients’ permits have been “suspended” and instruct recipients to wire money immediately in order to reopen or reinstate their permits.
The email looks like an official email from a county department.
Hernando County officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid responding to these fraudulent messages. Hernando County departments will never request payment through wire transfers or unsolicited email demands. All official permit payments are processed through secure online portals.
Residents are advised not to click on suspicious links or provide financial information in response to unsolicited emails. Hernando County Development Services uses the official Civic Access portal for permit-related services and payments, available at www.HernandoCounty.us/CivicAccess.
Anyone who receives a suspicious email related to permits or payment requests is encouraged to report the incident to Development Services at (352) 754-4057 immediately.
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to this impersonation scam, file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. Be sure to include any available information including:
The email address, date of email, and phone number, if provided.
The amount listed in the fraudulent invoice, the method requested to pay fees, and bank account information, if applicable.