24 Jun 2019

Phone scammers impersonating cybercrime unit, telcos - police

2:16 pm on 24 June 2019

Police are warning the public to be wary of scammers claiming to work for them or telecommunication companies.

Police generic

Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

Police said several people had in recent days been contacted by scammers claiming to be part of the Police Cybercrime Unit or a telco.

In one case, the person was contacted via a duplicate Facebook account of someone known to them.

The scammers then requested bank details.

Police said their message on scams was simple: do not engage with anyone on the phone and hang up immediately if you think you are being scammed.

"While most people will not respond to these scams, others are more vulnerable," said Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Brand.

"We urge you to have conversations with vulnerable or elderly family members to help ensure they are aware of the tactics often used by scammers.

"Please remember that government agencies will never contact you out of the blue and ask for bank details."

Anyone who believes they have been the victim or target of a scam is advised to contact police.

More advice on scam prevention is available on the NZ Police website.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs