631 days ago

Be aware of this WhatsApp scam

The Team from Wellington District Police

Police are warning people to be wary of a WhatsApp scam following an increase in reports in the Wellington District.

In this case scammers use WhatsApp to impersonate family members or friends in saying they need help and in particular need money.

Victims of this scam have received a message from an unknown number, claiming to be a loved one who has just lost their phone and got a replacement.

The scammer then attempts to obtain the victim’s credit card information.

These kinds of scams run constantly and while most people will not respond or buy into them, some people are more vulnerable.

We urge people to have conversations with vulnerable or elderly family members, to help ensure they are aware of the tactics often used by scammers and don't become victims.

If you are in doubt because a person is claiming to be a family member or friend, ask them a personal question – for example their date of birth, maiden name, pet name or name of a sibling.

Do not provide a password, credit card or bank details without making absolute sure, it is someone you know.

No legitimate agency will contact you and ask for your bank details or credit card out of the blue.

Police’s message on scams like this is simple – do not engage with anyone on the phone, and if you think you are being scammed report the incident immediately.

Anyone who believes they are a victim of a scam, in person, over the phone or online, should immediately report it to their bank, and then to their local Police.

More messages from your neighbours

Local Highlight

23 days ago

Poll: Are you as excited as we are for Te Matapihi’s grand reopening?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Wellington’s Te Awe Library on Brandon St will be closing its doors for good at 5 pm on March 1. It’s been the city’s largest temporary library, and now it’s making way for the exciting return of Te Matapihi Central Library!

We want to know: Are you as excited as we are for Te Matapihi’s grand reopening?

Want all the details? The Post has everything you need to know.

Are you as excited as we are for Te Matapihi’s grand reopening?

46.6% Yes

46.6% Complete
53.4% No

53.4% Complete

281 votes

16 hours ago

THE WAIKANAE BEACH MONTHLY COMMUNITY MARKET IS ON TOMORROW

Gary from Waikanae

WHERE:- Waikanae Beach Community Hall,
22 Rauparaha Street, Waikanae Beach,

WHEN:- Sunday 8 February 10am-1pm

Enjoy a Sunday outing with your family and friends by visiting this great friendly community market where you will discover handmade treasures and local creativity by highly talented stallholders where every piece tells a story.

FOR THE KIDS:-
Bring the kids along so they can meet jane with her quality handmade crochet toys, along with Helen and her huge range of awesome handmade children's dress ups and dolls clothes etc and Viv a local author of Children's Books and an accomplished creator of Pet Portraits.

NEW STALLHOLDERS:-
Viv Walker who writes and illustrates children's books, creates art prints and offers portrait commissions for people and pets will be joining us along with Nicky with her Fresh Flowers.

DISCOVER UNIQUE AND QUALITY ITEMS:-
With Valentines Day fast approaching do your gift shopping at the market where you'll find a huge variety of high-quality, reasonably priced ideas.

MEET UP WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY:-
Meet up with a friend or 2 and enjoy a Sunday outing at this great Community event.

Don't miss it... support local!