Manitou Springs Businesses Targeted by Sophisticated Email Scam Impersonating City Officials

Local business owners in Manitou Springs are being warned about a sophisticated email fraud scheme where scammers are posing as city planning officials to solicit fraudulent payments. The historic tourist town's administration has confirmed that at least two community members have received fake emails claiming to be from Planning Director Fred Rollenhagen.

These deceptive communications, targeting Colorado Springs area merchants during the busy tourist season, include detailed but fabricated information about permit requirements and payment instructions. Of particular concern, the scammers demonstrated intimate knowledge of local government processes to make their demands appear legitimate.

Local Impact and Response

The fraudulent emails specifically referenced Major Temporary Use Permits - documentation crucial for many Manitou Springs businesses operating during peak tourist months. One message attempted to convince a local business owner that immediate payment was required to continue operations.

"While these emails appeared legitimate and included references to city processes, they were not generated from any city employee," stated Manitou Springs officials in their public warning to the community.

The city's technology team has launched an immediate response, working with their IT and network services provider to strengthen communication security systems. Legal experts are also reviewing the incidents for potential criminal charges.

Protecting Colorado Businesses

For local business owners throughout the Pikes Peak region, this scam serves as a crucial reminder about digital security. The City of Manitou Springs advises community members to:

• Verify any unexpected payment requests directly with city offices
• Be wary of emails requesting urgent financial transactions
• Double-check sender email addresses for slight variations from official addresses
• Contact the city planning office directly with permit-related questions

This incident follows a growing trend of sophisticated scams targeting Colorado's small business community. According to FCC public records, similar schemes have been reported across the Front Range, highlighting the need for increased vigilance among local business owners.

Manitou Springs officials emphasize they are taking these fraudulent attempts seriously and are working closely with local law enforcement to protect the community's business owners and residents from financial fraud.

This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.