The City of Fowler has been notified of an ongoing scam targeting residents and business owners. The scam involves emails that appear to include official City of Fowler invoices. These emails may contain PDF attachments using the City’s past or current logo and list charges that appear legitimate.
This scam is particularly sophisticated. Fake invoices may include the recipient’s name or business, reference recent or ongoing City projects, and itemize services that sound valid. This information is often gathered from publicly available documents, such as Planning Commission agendas.
The most significant red flag identified is language instructing recipients to submit payment by “WIRE TRANSFER ONLY.” The City of Fowler will never require payment by wire transfer only.
The City accepts payment in a variety of ways, with the most secure option being payment made in person at City Hall, located at 128 S. 5th Street.
If you are unsure whether a communication or invoice is legitimate, do not respond to the email. Please contact the appropriate City department directly or call City Hall at (559) 834-3113 to verify.
If you believe you have been a victim of this scam and sent money via wire transfer, please contact the Fowler Police Department immediately to file a report.