Urgent Text? Think Again. See the Latest SMS Traps
Red flags to look out for
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Pushing for immediate action
Act now,” “Pay today,” “Your service will be cut off.”
Use of fear or threats
“Your account is compromised,” “You’ll be fined if you don’t respond.”
Offers of rewards or bonuses
“Claim your refund today,” “Bonus points expiring.”
Pretending to be official and final
“Final notice,” “Last chance,” “Do not ignore.”
Examples of common scams
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Bank alerts
Pretend to be your bank, warning of account issues to trick you into giving details or transferring money.
Delivery delays
Fake texts about stuck packages that demand “immediate action.”
Legal threats
Imposters posing as government agencies, threatening arrest, fines, or deportation unless you pay up.
Service cut-offs
Claims your phone, insurance, or subscription will be cancelled unless you act now.
Top tips for avoiding SMS Scams
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Double-check the sender’s mobile number and email address. Even if it seems legitimate, think twice before taking any action.
Reach out to the company’s customer service directly for help and support.
Never click on dubious links or attachments! Stick to official websites and apps.
If you’ve accidentally revealed private information, change your passwords immediately and inform the companies that scammers may contact pretending to be you.
What to do if you’re scammed by SMS
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Cut contact
Don’t reply or engage further. Block the number to stop future messages.
Report it
Secure your accounts:
Call your bank immediately to cancel cards or accounts and add extra security.
Reset passwords on any accounts that may be at risk, especially those with sensitive info.
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Auckland, why are we so excited about a new store? 🚗🛒
I think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you covered
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.4% Yes
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46.6% No
A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
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