POLICE---Public urged to proceed with caution after damaging banking scam resurfaces
Scammers behind fake term deposits scams have upped their game, and unfortunately, it means consumers need to be even more wary when making banking decisions.
Police are now issuing a warning to Kiwis to be alert when making enquiries into term deposits, with Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton, Auckland City CIB, saying this particular scam is remerging under the guise of yet another bank.
“While at this stage, we in Auckland City are not immediately aware of receiving any reports relating to this new scam, we want our communities to be aware before it’s too late.
“This scam initially emerged in early 2023 and the modus operandi remains the same.
"Victims are entering their contact details online and talking to an ‘investment advisor’ on the phone, before completing online documents, which often look professional, before transferring their money into a NZ bank account," he says.
“At this point the money is usually transferred off-shore by the holder of that bank account."
Detective Senior Sergeant Bolton says Police have now been contacted by Kiwibank to let us know they have been made aware it is appearing again under their name.
“It’s just one of many sophisticated ways scammers are attempting to deceive hardworking New Zealanders for their own financial gain.”
Earlier this month, the Financial Markets Authority also issued an alert to advise of this particular scam.
Detective Senior Sergeant Bolton says Police are continuing to make enquiries into other matters involving other renditions of this scam.
“It is truly devastating to be the victim of a scam like this.
We have spoken to countless victims and made enquiries into numerous reports and we do not want to see more people falling victim to these types of scams.
“While Police will investigate and make enquiries where possible when these matters are reported to us, we want to assist with preventing it before it can even happen.”
Police recommend the following steps you can take to protect themselves from this scam:
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• Never enter contact details into any online website that offers ‘term deposit’ rates
• If you think you may have entered your contact details on a website offering fake term deposits, do not engage in conversations over the phone with a person purporting to be from a bank - disconnect the call and phone back on a number displayed on the bank’s website
• You can always call your bank to seek reassurance and confirmation you are talking to a trusted and legitimate employee
• Seek advice from a trusted friend or family member, or someone who has knowledge of investments before sending any money anywhere
• Check the URL of the website that you are directed to and confirm it is the valid website for the bank that you believe that you are dealing with
• The Financial Markets Authority publishes the names of suspicious companies on their website.
Detective Senior Sergeant Bolton says, unfortunately, there is never a shortage of scams the public should be wary of.
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“Please be vigilant with your money.
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We urge anyone who sees something online they think might be attractive or a great deal to do their research, speak to friends and family, check with the FMA, and don’t be afraid to question anything that may be out of the ordinary.”
If you believe you are or have been the victim of fraud, contact Police at 105.police.govt.nz , or call Police on 105 and report the matter.
Additionally, a number of resources are also available to those who believe they may or could be the victim of this type of offending.
There are several NZ Government websites that have information and advice to help avoid falling victim to common fraudulent activity and scams.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has more information on how you can prevent yourself, family and friends from being scammed.
Visit www.consumerprotection.govt.nz...
The Financial Markets Authority provides helpful advice on its website to help avoid falling victim to online investments scams.
Visit www.fma.govt.nz...
CERT NZ provides advice on how to respond to an avoid cyber security incidents.
Visit www.cert.govt.nz...
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Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Tips and advice to stay street smart this summer
Summer is finally here!
Time for BBQs, holidays, Christmas, travelling and events galore.
We've put together a whole range of tips and advice so you can put your feet up and relax this summer, knowing that it's all good in your hood.
Our first piece of advice to make your neighbourhood safer this summer, is to get to know the people who live around you! People who know each other are more likely to offer, accept, and ask for help when needed.
Shop Safe - Preventing Fraud & Scams
You might find yourself making more purchases than usual at this time of year, and many of those might be online, so here's a set of tips and advice to make sure you stay safe and secure whilst doing your Christmas shopping this year. And remember to think about the security of your online shopping when it gets delivered!
Heading away this summer?
It's a busy time of year on new Zealand roads and everyone wants to get from A to B safely. It's also important that your home stays safe while you're away enjoying your 'home away from home'. We have put together a set of tips and advice to help make that happen!
Keeping your car, home and belongings safe
From recording valuable possessions to securing locks, keeping valuables hidden and informing trusted neighbours that you will be away, there are many things you can do to keep your car, home, and belongings safe. Here's a bunch of handy tips!
Party planning checklist and fire-wise tips
Whether it’s a small backyard gathering, or a big celebration for a special occasion, a little extra planning and consideration will go a long way in keeping you, your guests, and your neighbours happy. We also have some tips to make sure you and your families stay fire-wise during summer.
Get to know your neighbours - look out, reach out, help out
The most important action you can take to make your community safer is get to know the people who live around you. People who know each other are more likely to offer, accept, and ask for help when needed.
It is also important to know who to contact in an emergency and when to use the non-emergency contact for NZ Police. Learn more about Neighbourhood Support, get tips on getting to know your neighbours and the best way to contact the police below.
Strong communities start with small hellos
In terms of crime prevention, your neighbours are the best and cheapest security system you can have. You don't have to love your neighbour, but at least get their number just in case!
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Have a happy, safe and connected summer!
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Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
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