Safe Communities is presenting 90 minutes of essential information for those wanting to know more about scams and fraud in the Ashburton District.

Co-ordinator Lesley Symington said the presentation on Wednesday 17 April was to share what’s happening with scams in our local community, banking scams and safety, and learn general tips to protect yourself and your data.

“If you were born between 1946 and 1964, then this might be the ideal session to learn about scams, though people of all ages are affected.”

Guest speakers include Sue Abel from Mid Canterbury Neighbourhood Support, Carolyn Prebble from ASB bank, and Neysa Koizumi from Digital Waitaha.

The session will be in the Ashburton Library, at Te Whare Whakatere, from 2pm to 3.30pm.

No booking is needed and afternoon tea will be provided.

Police advise latest scam

New Zealand Police are currently warning the public that scammers have recently been posing as police officers to seek financial details.

The “officer” will claim to be from a particular department, tell you that you have been a victim of fraud or scam, and begin to try and obtain further financial information from you.

This is a scam.

Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton, from Auckland City’s Financial Crime Unit, says there have been at least a dozen reports made to Police, and these scam calls are largely being made to landlines.

“While Police do not have accurate numbers of how many of these scam calls have been received, it is important that the public are aware,” he said.

“Police will make some enquiries into these calls, but our experience has shown that often phone-based scammers will be operating from overseas.

“We appreciate the vigilance of those who have contact Police so far, as this will help us to make others in the community aware.”

Unfortunately, scams can take many different forms and target victims on different platforms, Detective Senior Sergeant Bolton said.

“Scammers are opportunistic and thrive off your trust and good will. If you receive a call of this nature, do not hand over any personal details.”

He said if people were uncertain, they should ask for the officer’s details – then hang up, contact 105 and ask for the officer to contact them.

If you are in the unfortunate position of being a victim of a scam, please report the matter to Police.