The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) has recently issued a fraud alert regarding an increasing phishing scam involving fraudulent EPA Notice of Violation letters. These scams target businesses, including those in the drilling industry, with falsified claims of environmental violations and demand responses via phone or email.
The Scam Explained
In this scam, fraudsters send fake EPA Notice of Violation letters via email or U.S. Postal Service mail. These letters allege that the recipient's business has violated environmental regulations such as the Clean Air Act and claim that the business owes thousands of dollars in fines. The letter then provides contact information for responding, but the provided email, such as invoice@epa.services, is not associated with the EPA. Legitimate government communication would use a ".gov" domain, such as "epa.gov."
Why Drillers Should Be Cautious
Drilling businesses, particularly those involved in water well, geotechnical, and geothermal projects, should pay close attention to this alert. The drilling industry is heavily regulated, and compliance with environmental laws is critical. A fraudulent Notice of Violation could cause unnecessary panic and potentially lead to significant financial loss if businesses fall victim to the scam.
Given the nature of drilling operations and the environmental impacts they might have, drillers are particularly susceptible to such scams, which prey on fears of non-compliance with environmental regulations. The false sense of urgency created by these letters can trick businesses into responding hastily, without verifying the legitimacy of the communication.
What to Do If You Receive Such a Letter
If you receive a Notice of Violation and are unsure of its validity, it is crucial to verify the letter's authenticity. Review the letter carefully, paying attention to the email address and contact details. Official communications from the EPA will always use a ".gov" domain. If you suspect that the letter is fraudulent, contact the EPA's enforcement office directly through verified contact information.
In case you believe you have fallen victim to this scam or have information on potential fraud, the EPA encourages you to report it to the OIG Hotline. You can do this by completing the online complaint form, emailing OIG.Hotline@epa.gov, or calling (888) 546-8740.
Stay Safe and Informed
The EPA's fraud alert serves as an essential reminder for drilling businesses to remain vigilant against phishing scams. Ensuring the authenticity of communications, especially those involving potential violations and fines, is critical to avoid falling victim to fraud. Stay informed, verify any suspicious notices, and report fraudulent activities to protect your business from potential scams.
