Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Spate Of Scam Activity Hitting Pasifika Communities In New Zealand And In The Islands
ASB is warning of a scam currently circulating on Facebook and Instagram, which takes advantage of the upcoming ASB Polyfest event to target Pasifika communities both in New Zealand and in the Pacific Islands.
Scammers have created fake social media profiles, with Polyfest logos and branding, which they are using to “sell” tickets and live streaming links for fans, friends and family wanting to watch the upcoming event. Victims are asked to pay for the fake tickets or access to the livestream via fraudulent payment links, which are used to steal debit and credit card information.
ASB Executive General Manager Technology and Operations says: “We’re really concerned about this scam activity, which is hurting the very people Polyfest aims to celebrate and we understand this is one of several current scams which are likely to impact these same communities. We are aware scammers have also been impersonating Pasifika Festival and sadly, sharing fraudulent links for the funeral of Member of Parliament Efeso Collins.
“Scam activity of all kinds is on the rise and I encourage everyone to be vigilant, particularly if you’re asked to make a payment or provide sensitive information.
“If you have friends or family in the Pasifika community here or in the Islands, or who might be interested in these events, let them know. Anyone can fall victim to a scam and staying alert to scammers is our first defence.”
“Anyone who has clicked on a link that might be suspicious, or entered their payment details, should block their cards in the first instance, and contact their bank immediately. ASB customers can call us 24/7 on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372).”
Legitimate tickets to Polyfest cost between $7.50 and $10 each and will only be sold via the iTICKET NZ site. The event will be livestreamed for free on the ASB Polyfest website from 20 March when the festival begins.
Fans will not be asked to enter any payment details to access the livestream and no tickets will be sold via social media pages or direct message.
How to spot a fraudulent profile:
- Fake business email addresses
- Suspicious URL links (containing a different name, for example)
- Spelling mistakes
- Blurry logos, images or other brand assets
- Few or no followers
- Has only recently joined the social media platform
ASB Bank
Helping you get one step ahead.
In 1847, ASB opened as the Auckland Savings Bank with the pledge: 'to serve the community; to grow and to help Kiwis grow'. And that is very much what ASB is about today.
ASB is a leading provider of integrated financial services in New Zealand including retail, business and rural banking, funds management and insurance.
ASB strives to consistently provide its customers with outstanding service and innovative financial solutions. They're dedicated to providing simple financial products that allow their customers to bank with them how and when they want.
We all have our own ways to measure progress, and our own stories about the things that matter to us. Whatever way you choose to measure progress, and whatever your goals, ASB is there to help you get one step ahead.
Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman: Woman Gets $40k More After Disputing Insurer’s Decision
BNZ: A Quarter Of Older NZers Fear Going Online Due To Scam Concerns
University of Auckland: Scientists Develop Tool To Monitor Coastal Erosion In Fine Detail
Oji Fibre Solutions: OjiFS Proposes To Discontinue Paper Production At Kinleith Mill
Hugh Grant: Navigating Digital Adoption In New Zealand - Embracing Change For A Bright Future
Dawn Aerospace: Historic Flight - Breaks Sound Barrier And Global Records
