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Kiwis are cautioned not to click on text message links after an increase in fraudulent messages about unpaid “customs charges” for package delivery.
The scams involve people being texted, claiming that a courier company has attempted to deliver a package, but due to unpaid “customs charges”, the package could not be delivered.
The recipient is then instructed to click on a link and is asked to follow the instructions outlined on the website.
If the details are provided, the scammer can log in and steal money from the target’s bank account, or sell their credentials to others.
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Netsafe, the Department of Home Affairs and the Customs Service have received thousands of reports on the texts this week.
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Thousands of Kiwis have reported fraudulent text messages about unpaid “customs charges” for the delivery of a package.
Netsafe CEO Martin Cocker said package delivery scams are more common as people shop online in the lead up to Christmas.
The agency has seen a 65 percent increase in reports related to the latest scam so far this quarter, he said.
Customs also reported dozens of calls about the scam over the past two days.
A spokesperson said that Customs does not communicate with people or companies about the arrival of goods, since the agency does not receive them physically.
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A link in the text of the scam leads to a website where the scammers try to collect personal and financial information.
“All imported products are delivered to warehouses managed by licensed freight forwarders known as customs-controlled areas. Shipping companies communicate with their customers when import taxes are due.”
Cocker said that anyone who receives a text message asking for money or personal information should delete the message and not click on any links.
Scams can be reported online to Netsafe or via a free text message to 7726.
The package delivery scam came in the middle of Fraud Awareness Week, when the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) warns Kiwis to be aware of new and sophisticated scams.
Mark Hollingsworth, consumer protection manager at MBIE, said the volume and complexity of scams targeting people in New Zealand are increasing.
Monique Ford / Stuff
Netsafe CEO Martin Cocker says package delivery scams are more common as people shop online before Christmas.
“Covid-19-related scams are on the rise as scammers target vulnerable people with promises about investments, job opportunities, and sales of medical equipment or treatments.
“We encourage people to make the right decision in those first crucial moments when they are unexpectedly contacted. We want people to automatically question unexpected calls and emails. “
Hollingsworth said it is important to verify whether a person, offer or company is legitimate.
“It’s okay to hang up, and you can always search for a company, bank, or government department via Google or a printed directory and contact customer service to be sure.”
