New version of Internet scam call
There is a new version of the scam calls from "Microsoft Technical Department". Now the caller claims to be calling from "Spark" Technical Department. Same story line though - your computer's security has been compromised, somebody has hijacked your internet connection, and they will connect with your computer remotely to fix it for you.
The other variation is that they now spoof a local number so that it no longer looks like an overseas call. Each time my caller display has shown an 06 prefix number.
If you are not connected with Spark and you tell them that they explain that Spark are the "mother internet provider for New Zealand"!
The best response is to simply hang up, but as I have just had my third call from them in two days the devil gets the better of me, and as I have the time to do so I lead them on and have a bit of fun with them before telling them what they are.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.5% Yes
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13.4% No
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
Cleaning a heat pump
Hi everyone. Can anyone recommend a reliable and reasonable company to clean our heat pump. We used it on cold for a couple of days and when turning it back to warm it has a smell. We get it serviced yearly but the firm we use is expensive.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.