Members of Auckland’s Chinese community are being advised to be “highly vigilant” about an investment scam emerging on social media.
It’s an especially pertinent message in east Auckland, where people of Chinese origin make up more than a quarter of the population.
Detective senior sergeant Rob Hunkin, of Counties Manukau Police’s criminal investigation branch, says two cases are being investigated where victims have been conned out of millions of dollars.
The scammers initially contact victims through WeChat or Telegra and ask them to “invest” in an Australian investment platform, he says.
“Once victims are hooked, an initial investment payment is made by international bank transfer.
“Eventually, the scammer will advise victims to pay into the scheme further in cash only.
“Payments are then being made in person with offenders going to a victim’s house or pre-arranging to meet them at a set location.
“The truth is that there is no investment platform – this is a scam.
“Police are continuing to investigate these two cases, but we need the community’s support to help raise awareness of what is happening.”
Hunkin says police recognise such schemes may sound rewarding but people need to be aware that scammers continue to reinvent ways of deceiving victims out of their money.
“Our advice to anyone is to be extremely cautious if you’re ever approached about making an investment into a project or scheme.
“It’s essential you do research to ensure the company is genuine before you hand over any money.
“If you cannot verify whether a person or scheme is what they say they are, never hand over any money and cease any contact.”
Hunkin says a legitimate investment will never require cash being handed over.
“We’re asking the community to assist police in sharing this message amongst their friends and family.
“The last thing we want to see is more people fall victim to these scams.”
