SCAM ALERT

Own your Online website is part of the New Zealand government's work to raise understanding of cyber security issues for individuals and businesses, they have shared a message about a new scam that is targeting Kiwis.

Own Your Online say:
We are seeing a significant increase in reporting of ‘Hi Mum’ scams.
A ‘Hi Mum’ scam is a scam where a random message from an unknown number is sent to you claiming to be from a close relative, usually your son or daughter.
The fake relative often claims their phone is broken – which is why they’re contacting you from a different number – and will ask you to do something, sometimes asking you to help them with a payment or to do something by clicking a link.

If you receive one of these, don’t click the links. Try to contact your relative using their normal number which is probably still working.
You can also report these scam messages by forwarding free to Department of Internal Affairs on 7726

Check out Own Your Online scam checklist here.

More messages from your neighbours

The Summer Kiwi Quiz is back by popular demand

Summer Kiwi Quiz - 2026

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