12:00pm, 10 March 2023
TLP Rating:
Credit card scam text message campaign targets New Zealanders
New Zealanders are being targeted in a text message phishing campaign. The messages claim to be from various organisations, including NZTA, Apple, Uber, postal services and many others. The messages will claim the recipient has unpaid tolls or fees or otherwise needs to pay a small sum. They also contain a link that looks like a shortened URL.
Scammers change the language of these messages often, so be aware that they may change from the description above.
What to look for
How to tell if you're at risk
If you receive an unsolicited text message that contains a link and claims you owe a payment.
Just receiving the text message does not mean you are at risk, however, if you click the link, then your risk increases.
What to do
Prevention
If you receive a text message of this nature, forward it free-of-charge to 7726. This is a service run by the Department of Internal Affairs. They will reply and ask for the phone number that sent it.
Also report the URL to CERT NZ either on our website or contact us on 0800 CERTNZ.
Report an incident to CERT NZ External Link
Do not click the link in the text message, just delete it after reporting.
Mitigation
If you have clicked the link, do not enter your credit card details or any other personal information.
If you have already paid any money, then immediately contact your bank. The sooner you do it, the more likely the bank can reverse the charges and potentially stop any future payments the scammers may set up.
More information
If you require more information or further support, submit a report on our website or contact us on 0800 CERTNZ.
Report an incident to CERT NZ External Link
For media enquiries, email our media desk at media@mbie.govt.nz or call the MBIE media team on 027 442 2141.