Phishing Targeting Reno & Sparks Development Permits

The City of Reno and Washoe County have flagged a highly targeted phishing campaign aimed specifically at local developers, architects, and contractors.

Why This Scam is Effective

Attackers are using publicly available permit data from city planning portals. Because they know the project address and the contractor’s name, the phishing email looks incredibly authentic.

• The Lure: An email appearing to be from City of Reno or City of Sparks staff regarding an “outstanding permit fee” or “zoning delay.”
• The Pressure: They claim that if payment isn’t received within 24 hours, the project will face a “stop-work order.”
• The Request: They ask for payment via a third-party link or wire transfer to a non-government account.

How to Verify Your Permits

If you receive a suspicious communication regarding a planning or zoning permit:

1. Check the Domain: Official emails will always come from @reno.gov, @cityofsparks.us, or @washoecounty.gov.
2. Call the Source: * City of Sparks Planning: (775) 353-1648
   • City of Reno Development Services: (775) 334-2040
3. Use the Portal: Log in directly to the Accela Citizen Access portal to check permit status rather than following email links.

Construction firms are high-value targets due to the large dollar amounts involved in project fees. High Sierra Cyber provides specialized awareness training for the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) industry.