2081 days ago

Will they never learn? (Scammers - the eternal optimists)

Peter from Kamo

Got a phone call today. After several "hello" I got a very thin voice at the other end, asking me (with a really thick Indian accent) how I am today. I could not understand most of what he said, the line was so bad. First I thought he was hustling for some charity. But no. Eventually he got around to telling me that he was calling from the technical department of Estark. "sorry, who?" "Estark". "I don't know anyone Estark" .. "it's about your internet connection!" "Ah, now I know what this is all about" - click, hung up on him.

It was only 5 minutes later when talking to my wife about it that it dawned on me that the 'gentleman' (and I use the term in the loosest sense) tried to con me into believing that he works for Spark ...

Seriously! {shakes head} Do they really expect that anyone in this country hasn't heard about their little enterprise yet?
It would help their case if they at least a) could pronounce the name of the ISP and b) actually pretend to be from the correct ISP that supplies me with internet - not that they have any way of finding that info easily.



Almost feel sorry for them. But, not really.

More messages from your neighbours
7 days ago

Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!

William Hansby Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.

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3 days ago

Scam Alert: Bank cold calls

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

ASB is warning customers about reports of cold calls from scammers claiming to be from ASB. These scammers are trying to obtain personal information, including usernames, dates of birth, and verification codes sent to your mobile phone.

🛡️ The "Caller Check" Test
If you get a call from someone claiming to be from ASB and you’re unsure, just ask them for a Caller Check. You will then be able to verify the call through the app.

Remember, banks will:​​
❌ Never ask for your banking passwords, PINs, or verification codes​​
❌ Never need to know your full credit card number – especially the CVC
❌ Never ask you to download software or remotely access your device​​
❌ Never ask you to purchase gift cards or transfer funds.

If you have received a phone call and think your account has been compromised, call ASB on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372), or visit your local branch.

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5 days ago

🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?

Do you think you know the answer?

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