Urgent Text? Think Again. See the Latest SMS Traps
Red flags to look out for
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Pushing for immediate action
Act now,” “Pay today,” “Your service will be cut off.”
Use of fear or threats
“Your account is compromised,” “You’ll be fined if you don’t respond.”
Offers of rewards or bonuses
“Claim your refund today,” “Bonus points expiring.”
Pretending to be official and final
“Final notice,” “Last chance,” “Do not ignore.”
Examples of common scams
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Bank alerts
Pretend to be your bank, warning of account issues to trick you into giving details or transferring money.
Delivery delays
Fake texts about stuck packages that demand “immediate action.”
Legal threats
Imposters posing as government agencies, threatening arrest, fines, or deportation unless you pay up.
Service cut-offs
Claims your phone, insurance, or subscription will be cancelled unless you act now.
Top tips for avoiding SMS Scams
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Double-check the sender’s mobile number and email address. Even if it seems legitimate, think twice before taking any action.
Reach out to the company’s customer service directly for help and support.
Never click on dubious links or attachments! Stick to official websites and apps.
If you’ve accidentally revealed private information, change your passwords immediately and inform the companies that scammers may contact pretending to be you.
What to do if you’re scammed by SMS
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Cut contact
Don’t reply or engage further. Block the number to stop future messages.
Report it
Secure your accounts:
Call your bank immediately to cancel cards or accounts and add extra security.
Reset passwords on any accounts that may be at risk, especially those with sensitive info.
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Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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36.6% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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62.6% No, I enjoy it
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0.8% Other - I'll share below
Poll: How important is the ability to book a doctor’s appointment online?
Hi Neighbours
Here at The Doctors we would love to hear how you prefer to book your doctor’s appointments. With busy schedules, different people find different methods easier.
For some, online booking is very convenient, you can make an appointment anytime without needing to wait on the phone. Others still prefer calling the clinic and speaking to a real person, especially if they have specific questions about their visit.
Your feedback helps us understand what works best for our patients and how we can improve access to care.
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40.3% I prefer booking online whenever possible
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21.4% Online booking is helpful but not essential
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34.6% I prefer calling the clinic
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3.7% I didn’t know online booking was available
Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?
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76.3% Inside!
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23.7% On top!
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