New Zealanders lost significantly more money to online credit card scams in October, despite the number of reported cases dropping. Netsafe, New Zealand’s independent online safety organisation, recorded a 235% jump in financial losses from these scams last month, climbing from $1,865 in September to $6,264 in October.

While reports to Netsafe fell from 37 in September to 28 in October, the sharp rise in financial losses suggests scammers are changing their tactics and improving their sophistication.

The losses in September averaged about $50 per incident, which would be typical of online purchases of consumer goods, whereas the average loss last month was about $220, which is more typical of bogus fines or fees, Netsafe noted.

The organisation expects this balance to change back in the next few months as people start their Christmas shopping.

Credit card-related scams typically involve scammers collecting payment card numbers and using them to make purchases or other payments online. Netsafe says the data is a good reminder to be extra cautious about where you share payment information online.

When shopping online, check customer reviews to see whether the seller delivers the goods they advertise. Where possible, choose stores that are well known or that you’re familiar with.

If you receive a text or email about a fine or fee, don’t click any links or pay straight away. Instead, look up the organisation’s official contact details and contact them directly to confirm whether the message is genuine.

Netsafe also encourages people to regularly review their transaction history for unexpected charges and to compare order confirmation emails with payment records.

The latest data is consistent with September’s report, which showed that while the number of impersonation scam reports dropped, the total monetary loss increased.

Money lost to impersonation scams climbed from $5,000 in August to $19,600 in September - an increase of nearly 300% - even as reports fell from 79 to 73. These types of scams involve scammers pretending to be someone to extract money and information from people close to the victim.

Report to Netsafe

If you need assistance or support Netsafe has got you covered. 

Contact us by completing an online report form, emailing us on help@netsafe.org.nz or texting on 4282.

We can offer support, including guiding you through any steps you may be able to take if you have been caught up in a sextortion scam, and advice on how to stay safe in future. We may be able to help with reporting profiles and content to the online platforms. Here is how our process works. 

Our helpline is open from 8am – 6pm weekdays. Our free number is 0508 638 723.

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