The City of Pasadena has been made aware of a new phishing campaign targeting local business license holders. These fraudulent emails falsely claim to be from the City’s Code Compliance Division and are designed to alarm recipients into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information. The messages are signed by a fictitious individual named "Maggie Lyons" — please note that no one by this name is currently employed by the City of Pasadena. While the email may appear legitimate at first glance...
Fraud Alerts
Recent fraud alerts and other security information that can affect your business and help you protect your personal information.
Section 8 Fraud Alert
The City has recently become aware of Section 8 participants being targeted by scammers pretending to be rental property representatives or landlords. These scammers create phony rental housing listings on sites like Craigslist or other free online listing services. When a Section 8 participant applies, the scammer pressures them to pay a security or holding deposit quickly without having seen the rental unit. The scammer may also have the Section 8 participant complete an application for the fake rental unit...
Business License Scam Alert
Recently the City has been made aware of business license holders in Pasadena being targeted and threatened by phony websites and emails posing as the City in an attempt to steal license holders’ personal information. Example of a Business License Email Scam Example of a scam email purporting to be from the City Example of a City Website Spoofing Always verify the URL of websites you are visiting. If you are unsure of a website, use the Google Safe Browsing...
Fraud Alert! Beware of Common Tax Scams
Tax season is upon us, a time of year when the scammers go into overdrive. Be extra careful while online, and avoid activities that could put your identity and finances at risk. It doesn’t matter whether you owe money to the IRS or are expecting a refund, as the scammers will target you regardless of your situation. Let’s explore some common tax scams, warning signs that you may be victim, and steps you can take to protect yourself, your identity,...
