Does it sound too good to be true? It probably is 🏡
Canterbury Police are reminding the community to be vigilant when it comes to rental scams. Unfortunately, this not a new scam and targets victims through different platforms.
In all instances, the scammers are posing as legitimate landlords or real estate agents. When looking for a rental, make sure an advertised property is legitimate by attending a viewing.
Before giving people money or making an agreement, it is essential you consider:
🏠 Never transfer money to an individual or organisation that you can't verify as legitimate.
🏠 A legitimate landlord or real estate agent will have a website, generally a physical address, and you should be able to speak to more than one person from that organisation.
🏠 If you believe you are being currently targeted by a scam that sounds like this, please end contact immediately and get in touch with Police.
🏠 Trust your instincts, if it sounds like a scam, it probably is.
🏠 For further information of how to keep safe online, or to report suspected scams, please go to netsafe.org.nz...
🏠 You can also find prevention advice at www.police.govt.nz...
Read more about these types of scams here - www.police.govt.nz......
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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16.7% A week before Christmas
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32.4% Whenever you wish
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
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