Campbell County, VA – The Campbell County Community Development Office has become aware of a fraudulent invoice scam targeting our citizens. It's crucial that residents remain vigilant and aware of this deceptive scheme.
On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, county staff received a report from a community member that received an invoice which appears to be from the Campbell County Board of Zoning Appeals/Planning and Zoning Commission. These invoices are not legitimate communications; it is a scam designed to convince citizens to share personal and financial information.
Invoices may include requests for payment for services that were never rendered; see attached example of Fraudulent Invoice. While these invoices may look convincing, mimicking the format and language of a real billing document, please note that official communications regarding invoices and payments are always sent via traditional mail.
We urge all citizens to take the following precautions to protect themselves from potential scams:
Do Not Pay Email Invoices: If you receive an unexpected invoice, do not pay it. Verify its authenticity by contacting the company directly using known contact information, not the information provided on the invoice.
Report the Scam: If you believe you have received a scam invoice, please report it to the Campbell County Sheriff's Office at (434) 332-9580, or to the Federal Trade Commission at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov. Your reports help law enforcement track and address these fraudulent activities.
Protect Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing personal or financial information over the phone, through email, or online. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to provoke fear and compel individuals to act hastily.
Share the Alert: Spread the word within your community. Inform friends and family members, especially those who may be less familiar with common scams, so they can protect themselves.
The safety and well-being of our community are paramount; all direct payment inquiries should only be conducted through official county channels. If you have questions about your invoices or payment processes, please contact the Campbell County Community Development office directly at (434) 332-9595 or commdev@campbellcountyva.gov.
Attached: Fraudulent Invoice Example