Police 'deeply concerned' over fake charity scam targeting vulnerable people

  • 13/05/2023
Police 'deeply concerned' over fake charity scam targeting vulnerable people
Photo credit: Getty Images

Police say they are "deeply concerned" about a fake charity scam targeting vulnerable people in the Kāpiti-Mana area.

The scam involves a purported charity organisation that offers to help people in need with their housing and associated costs.

Victims are then asked to transfer money, often as an advance on things like their bond, home appliances, and bills.

Police said a number of victims have reported losing money to this scam so far.

"We're deeply concerned about this scam and its targeting of vulnerable people who we know can't afford to lose funds," a police spokesperson said on Facebook.

"Police are following strong lines of enquiry, however, we want our community to remain vigilant."

They advise never transferring transfer money to an individual or organisation that you can't verify as legitimate.

"A legitimate charity will have a website, generally a physical address, and you should be able to speak to more than one person from that organisation," they said.

"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.

"If you've been a victim of a scam that sounds like this, we also want to hear from you. Please call 105 and reference file number 230317/4933."