Framingham warns of email scam targeting permit applicants

The City of Framingham announced Oct. 19 that it is aware of an active email scam involving fraudulent requests for payment tied to municipal permits.

According to the announcement, scammers are sending fake emails that appear to notify recipients their permit has been approved, or that payment is needed to continue the approval process, and then instruct them to wire money. The emails use information that is publicly posted on the city's Public Meeting Portal, where agendas and permit-related documents are listed under state open meeting laws, so the scam messages include actual details from the applicant's project.

The city said these emails do not come from Framingham and are designed to trick recipients into sending funds to fraudulent accounts.

The city stated it will never request wire transfers or online payments through unfamiliar links or unofficial communication methods. Officials said all legitimate city communications come from email addresses ending in @framinghamma.gov, and that payments for permits must be made directly through the city's official website or in person at City Hall.

Residents were encouraged to follow official city communication channels for updates, including the city website, its social media accounts on Facebook, X and Instagram, the city's Sunday newsletter, and the NotifyMe alert system for text and email alerts.

Source: City of Framingham announcement, October 19, 2026.

Checked against the record: before publication this article was automatically compared with the original announcement.