Renewed warning over immigration phone scam

Following an earlier release this month, Police are continuing to receive reports from people who have been targeted by scammers whoclaim to be calling from Immigration New Zealand. The callers are said to be very rude and aggressive.

In the latest incidents they do not appear to be demanding money, but they are still threatening their victims with deportation.

Members of the public should be aware that New Zealand government agencies such as Immigration or Inland Revenue will never call, email or text demanding payment or threatening deportation.

Police advice for anyone who thinks they may be on the receiving end of one of these calls is as follows:

- Hang up immediately.

- If it doesn't seem right, be cautious, double-check details first.

- Look after your personal details in the same way you would your wallet and other possessions. Your personal details are also very valuable to scammers, as they will use your details to take out loans or run up debts if they can.

- Be aware of common scams. For example, banks, Immigration New Zealand or Inland Revenue never email, call or text customers to ask for money to be sent using money transfer services.

If you receive a request like that, it's a scam.

If you have been targeted by a scam, report it immediately by visiting Consumer Protection's Scamwatch website at www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/get-guidance/scams-and-online-safety/scams.

ENDS

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