Scam alert
Christchurch Police are urging people to be cautious when it comes to buying goods listed for sale on social media/marketplace.
Police are investigating several recent reports of people being threatened or assaulted and money and possessions taken from them, when they’ve met with people posing as sellers of goods on social media. In an online environment, it can be difficult to verify the person you are dealing with has good intentions.
Police urge anyone buying/selling on these platforms to exercise caution and if you do experience aggressive behaviour, report it to Police.
Here are a number of suggestions to keep yourself safe:
- First and foremost, we recommend using a reputable online site to buy or sell items.
- If the trader insists on meeting at an unusual location to make a sale, be cautious. It may be that they are selling stolen items or don't want to be identified for some other reason.
- Equally, if purchasers are reluctant to meet in person or insist items are dropped off at a location, they may be avoiding being seen or identified.
- If you’re meeting in person, make sure you’re meeting in a public place and away from any alleyways or side streets where someone could quickly disappear into and don’t go alone.
- Check the social media profile of the seller. Is it a new profile or relatively blank? There's a chance it may be a fake profile, and are sometimes deleted after you’ve paid.
- If you are the seller, make sure the money is in your account before sending or handing off items.
- As the saying goes: if it is too good to be true, it probably is.
If you wish to report a scam, call 105, or report it with us online at www.police.govt.nz...
A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
-
53.2% Yes
-
46.8% No
Ryman Village Open Days
Wednesday 10 December, 10am - 3pm
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!
Loading…
