A routine zoning application could put Summit residents in a scammer’s crosshairs — fraudsters are using public records to send fake payment demands that look like they came from City Hall.

Residents with active Planning Board or Zoning Board applications have received fraudulent letters and emails that appear to come from city employees, demanding wire transfers and other payments.

The City of Summit said the messages are not legitimate and warned residents that the city will never request payment by wire transfer.

The scam appears to be part of a broader phishing scheme targeting permit applicants nationwide. The FBI has warned that criminals use public records — including property addresses, application numbers and hearing dates — to create convincing fake invoices and pressure recipients to pay quickly.

How to spot the scam

Legitimate Summit payment notices come directly from the Department of Community Services and include proper documentation. The city accepts payments only through its office, by cash or check payable to the City of Summit.

Residents should be suspicious of any message that:

  • Demands immediate payment
  • Requests a wire transfer, cryptocurrency or payment app transfer
  • Threatens delays unless money is sent

The city said it is removing personal contact information from Planning Board and Zoning Board application documents to help prevent future scams.

Received a suspicious message?

Do not send money or personal information. Residents can verify a request by contacting:

Anyone who has already sent money or provided personal information should contact the Summit Police Department’s non-emergency line at 908-273-0051 and report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.