Back
181 days ago

Be aware of this WhatsApp scam

The Team from Wellington District Police

Police are warning people to be wary of a WhatsApp scam following an increase in reports in the Wellington District.

In this case scammers use WhatsApp to impersonate family members or friends in saying they need help and in particular need money.

Victims of this scam have received a message from an unknown number, claiming to be a loved one who has just lost their phone and got a replacement.

The scammer then attempts to obtain the victim’s credit card information.

These kinds of scams run constantly and while most people will not respond or buy into them, some people are more vulnerable.

We urge people to have conversations with vulnerable or elderly family members, to help ensure they are aware of the tactics often used by scammers and don't become victims.

If you are in doubt because a person is claiming to be a family member or friend, ask them a personal question – for example their date of birth, maiden name, pet name or name of a sibling.

Do not provide a password, credit card or bank details without making absolute sure, it is someone you know.

No legitimate agency will contact you and ask for your bank details or credit card out of the blue.

Police’s message on scams like this is simple – do not engage with anyone on the phone, and if you think you are being scammed report the incident immediately.

Anyone who believes they are a victim of a scam, in person, over the phone or online, should immediately report it to their bank, and then to their local Police.

Image
More messages from your neighbours
19 hours ago

Riddle Me This: Can You Out-Smart Yesterday’s Champ?

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

How can the number four be half of five?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

Image
2 days ago

Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.

This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
.
Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

Image
Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
  • 84.3% Yes
    84.3% Complete
  • 14.2% No
    14.2% Complete
  • 1.5% Other - I'll share below
    1.5% Complete
1396 votes
1 day ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

Image