Another scam happening about internet connections
At about 11am today (11/09/25) I received a call from a man with an Indian accent saying he was from Spark NZ and that my IP address had been changed from private to public and that therefore its security had been compromised.
The first hint that it was a scam is that when I answered the phone there was the telltale sound of the call being connected remotely, it sounded like he was calling from his home.
The second hint is that Spark NZ is not my internet provider.
The third hint was he that informed me that it didn't matter who I am using as my internet provider (he quoted a few names of NZ internet providers but not the one that I am using), all the connections go through Spark and use their equipment.
When he asked me whether I had a laptop or a desktop computer I thought that would be giving away too much information (and also that it would also be unnecessary). I then told him I was terminating the call and he actually hung up on me.
I have just checked with my internet provider and they assured me that if there ever was problem they would call and not Spark NZ.
Just a "heads up" guys.
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% Yes
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47% 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
Turn Wallpaper Scraps into Beautiful Blossoms
These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.
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