The public is being warned to be aware of phone scammers posing as police officers and seeking Kiwis’ financial details.
NZ Police say they’re aware of reports emerging this month where people have been contacted on the phone by someone claiming to be an officer.
The officer will claim to be from a particular department, say the person has been a victim of fraud or scam, and begin to try and obtain further financial information. This is a scam.
Detective senior sergeant Craig Bolton, from Auckland City’s Police’s financial crime unit, says there have been at least a dozen reports made to police and the scam calls are largely being made to landlines phone numbers.
“While police do not have accurate numbers of how many of these scam calls have been received, it is important that the public are aware,” he says.
“Police will make some enquiries into these calls, but our experience has shown that often phone-based scammers will be operating from overseas.
“We appreciate the vigilance of those who have contacted police so far, as this will help us to make others in the community aware.”
Unfortunately, scams can take many different forms and target victims on different platforms, Bolton says.
“Scammers are opportunistic and thrive off your trust and good-will.
“If you receive a call of this nature, do not hand over any personal details.”
NZ Police will never contact people seeking their banking details, card numbers, pin numbers or passwords.
There are instances where legitimate police officers will contact Kiwis as part of their duties and police ask the public to remain vigilant.
