State warns vendors of fraudulent emails seeking payments, information

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Officials are alerting businesses and vendors of fraudulent emails impersonating state government agencies.

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The Hawaii Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS), through its Office of Enterprise Technology Services (ETS), said the impersonators are requesting payments and sensitive information.

“Our administratively attached agency, The State Procurement Office (SPO), has received reports from vendors who were contacted by individuals falsely representing state agencies,” detailed Acting Lieutenant Governor and DAGS Director Keith Regan, who is also the state comptroller. “In some instances, fraudulent emails requested a $400 deposit and directed recipients to complete a DAGS/Hawaiʻi State Archives form that appeared to be an official state document.”

SPO has also received reports of fraudulent emails impersonating other state agencies, including the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism and the Department of Budget and Finance.

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“These scams are designed to exploit the trust that businesses and the public place in government agencies,” said Vince Hoang, state chief information security officer.

State officials urge businesses and members of the public to remain vigilant and take the following precautions:

SPO may be reached at [email protected] or 808-586-0554, you can also visit their website by clicking here.

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