Staff warns of email scams targeting applicants; city to consider ordinance banning crypto kiosks

Planning staff told the Benton City Planning Commission that a string of frauds targeting land-use applicants prompted changes to how applicant information is published and spurred plans for new local rules to curb fraud.

Staff said scammers have been harvesting applicant names and email addresses from the city website, impersonating the city with fake email addresses and logos, and sending invoices demanding payment. “They’re emailing that person and saying, hey. This is Benton City … attach an invoice for $5,000 for your land use,” staff said, describing a recent incident that nearly cost an applicant several thousand dollars.

Staff said the city is limiting how much applicant information it posts online to reduce exposure and will increase outreach to affected residents. Staff also announced the city will pursue an ordinance modeled on sheriff’s guidance to outlaw cryptocurrency kiosks that scammers use to accept untraceable payments; the planning record included a staff comment that the kiosks used cryptocurrency and that outlawing them would help protect seniors and other vulnerable residents.

The commission heard from several residents who described losing money or having to cancel cards after fraud attempts. Staff encouraged caution and suggested practical steps for residents conducting online transactions.

Next steps: staff will notify the public (including applicants) about the scam mitigation measures, continue limited posting of applicant contact details, and pursue an ordinance to restrict cryptocurrency kiosks.