​PLEASE BE AWARE:

The New Zealand Office of Ethnic Communities has sent out an alert to warn people against a current telephone scam operating in New Zealand which is targeting ethnic community members. 

The scammers pose as Immigration New Zealand officials and call individuals to discuss ‘problems’ with their residency, suggesting the person may be considered an illegal immigrant. They then request sums of money to be paid or threaten deportation.

This scam is currently being investigated by New Zealand Police. Scams like this are targeted and can seem credible. Please do not give out account details over the phone unless you made the call directly and you trust that the number you called is genuine. Ask for a name and number so you can call them back, and check that number against a number you know to be genuine.

If you have given away your credit card details to a scammer call your bank immediately so that they can suspend your account. Ask to speak to bank staff that specialise in security or fraud for assistance. Credit card companies can reverse a fraudulent transaction if contacted soon enough.

If you believe you have been a victim of this scam please contact your local police station.