New scam involves fraudulent letters claiming to be from Kaua‘i County Council

Kaua‘i County warns the public about a new scam involving fraudulent letters sent through the mail claiming to be from Kaua‘i County Council.

The letters attempt to mislead recipients by using official-looking formatting and language.

Versions of the bogus letter contain the Kaua‘i County seal and statements regarding illegal use of fireworks, county ordinances, enforcement actions or penalties. Officials stress that this correspondence is not legitimate and did not originate from the council or any county department.

Residents are urged to be cautious and verify any suspicious communication.

Officials offered these key tips to avoid falling victim:

• All official communication from Kaua‘i County Council will be sent through Office of the Kaua‘i County Clerk or an individual council member. All letters from the county clerk will be signed.
• Do not respond or act if you doubt letters demanding immediate action or threatening penalties.
• Contact the county clerk’s office at 808-241-4188, Kaua‘i Fire Department at 808-241-4980 or Kaua‘i Police Department at 808-241-1711 to verify the authenticity of any questionable correspondence.
• Be cautious of high-pressure tactics or threats demanding personal information, payments or compliance with alleged legal action.
• Family members and caretakers of elderly residents are encouraged to discuss these scam warnings with loved ones.

Anyone who receives a suspicious letter or thinks they were targeted by this scam is encouraged to report it immediately to Kaua‘i Police Department dispatch at 808-241-1711 or Office of the Kaua‘i County Clerk at 808-241-4188.

Impersonating a public servant is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail or a fine up to $2,000.