Monterey officials warn of phishing scam using real addresses, permit information

Monterey officials are warning residents, property owners and contractors about a phishing scam in which fraudsters impersonate city staff and use real permit and property information to demand fake payments.

In an alert Thursday, Monterey officials warned that scammers are sending emails containing accurate details about actual or past development projects, including architectural review permits, property addresses and zoning information. The city believes scammers may be pulling the information from public agendas and staff reports to make the messages appear legitimate.