Members of the Chinese community are advised to be highly vigilant about an investment scam emerging on some social media.
Police are investigating two cases where victims have been conned out of millions of dollars.
Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Hunkin, of Counties Manukau CIB, says the scammers are initially contacting victims through WeChat or Telegram asking them to “invest” in an Australian investment platform.
“Once victims are hooked, an initial investment payment is made by international bank transfer.
“Eventually, the scammer will advise victims to pay into the scheme further in cash only.”
Payments are then being made in person with offenders going to a victim’s house or pre-arranging to meet them at a set location.
“The truth is that there is no investment platform – this is a scam,” Detective Senior Sergeant Hunkin says.
“Police are continuing to investigate these two cases, but we need the community’s support to help raise awareness of what is happening.”
Police recognise that these schemes may sound rewarding.
Be aware, scammers continue to reinvent ways of deceiving people out of their money, Detective Senior Sergeant Hunkin says.
“Our advice to anyone is to be extremely cautious if you are ever approached about making an investment into a project or scheme.
“It is essential that you do research to ensure the company is genuine before you hand over any money.
“If you cannot verify whether a person or scheme is what they say they are, never hand over any money and cease any contact.”
A legitimate investment will never require cash being handed over.
Detective Senior Sergeant Hunkin says: “We are asking the community to assist Police in sharing this message amongst their friends and family.
“The last thing we want to see is more people fall victim to these scams.”
Remember:
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Seek advice from a trusted friend or family member, or someone who has knowledge of investments before sending any money anywhere
- If you are being contacted by scammers, cease communicating with them.
- Never hand over any money, as well as a personal or financial information
- If you believe you are or have been the victim of fraud, contact Police at 105.police.govt.nz, or call Police on 105 and report the matter.
Image credit: Adem AY
