Police warn of fraudulent emails
Police are aware of widespread email scams that refer to law enforcement and other law enforcement partners.
The email alleges that authorities searched the email recipient’s computer and found apparently illegal content.
Recipients are instructed to respond within 48 hours. If no reply is received, an arrest warrant will be issued.
This email is a scam and recipients should not reply under any circumstances.
While some versions of the email do not specifically mention money, other similar scams issue a “fine” to the recipient upon response.
The nature and specific details of scams vary, but be aware that police or other government agencies will never suddenly contact you and ask for your password, credit card, or banking details.
Police have received multiple reports of this scam and an investigation is ongoing.
Anyone receiving this email is asked to forward it directly to the police cybercrime team. Cybercrime@police.govt.nz
Police recommend that you take spam seriously. Trust your instincts. If you feel bad, you probably don’t.
Information about other ongoing scams can be found on the Consumer Protection NZ website. www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/general-help/scamwatch
Along with Netsafe, Consumer Protection NZ also offers helpful advice for staying safe online.
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Published by Police Media Center
Note: Police have removed all email addresses, links, and personal information from the attached example.
https://www.police.govt.nz/news/release/police-urge-caution-scam-email-circulating Police warn of fraudulent emails