Teton County Email Scam Alert: Planning Department Fraud

Teton County officials are warning development applicants about fraudulent emails impersonating Planning Department staff and requesting wire transfer payments.

Scammers reference specific projects under review, including the Northern Lights subdivision, and cite accurate dates, technical studies and site locations to appear legitimate. The emails use a misspelled version of the Planning Director's name—"Kaufman Wade"—and ask recipients to reply for wire transfer instructions to pay fees.

"Teton County will never request a wire transfer via email," county officials said. The county processes all fees through secure online payment portals or in person at the Courthouse.

Officials urge applicants to verify any unexpected payment request by calling the Planning Department directly before responding. Legitimate Teton County emails come only from addresses ending in @tetoncountyidaho.gov. Do not reply to suspicious messages or click attachments.

Anyone who receives a fraudulent email should report it to the Teton County Sheriff's Office at 208-776-8200, extension 1. The Sheriff's Office is investigating.