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.
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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53.2% Yes
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46.8% No
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Poll: Over summer, how do you reclaim your sense of home in the Waikato?
When tourists take over the streets and parking disappears, where do you find your calm?
Or is summer’s hustle something to enjoy rather than escape?
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40% I enjoy the summer hubbub!
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60% Please, give me some peace
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0% I escape the region during summer
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