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People are being urged to stay alert following a rise in phone scams, with callers impersonating immigration officials and using New Zealand mobile numbers to appear legitimate.
Stephen Vaughan, chief operating officer at Immigration New Zealand, said these calls were not genuine, and department officials would never, under any circumstances, contact people by phone to request money.
"If someone calls saying they are from Immigration New Zealand demanding a payment - it is a scam," he said. "Hang up immediately."
New Zealanders, migrants living in New Zealand and people overseas were all being targeted as scam tactics were becoming increasingly sophisticated, he said.
In the recent scam, callers claimed there was an urgent problem with a visa to create pressure or fear, according to Immigration New Zealand.
They might ask the person to "press 1", speak to an operator and provide personal information such as passport or bank details.
"These scammers want people to worry," Vaughan said. "But our staff will never ask for bank details, and we will never ask for payments over the phone."
People who were unsure about a communication they received were encouraged to contact the department directly.
"If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts," Vaughan said. "Do not give any personal details. Hang up and report it."
People were also being urged to report the scam to CERT NZ using their online reporting form.
More information about how to avoid scams can also be found on Immigration New Zealand's website.
