45128 (2025). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

45128 (2025). Arena Williams to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: What message, if any, does the Minister have to kiwi victims of scams who lose amounts like NZD 250,000 in one online banking transaction?

Hon Scott Simpson: I empathise with these victims. If you have been scammed: Stop all contact with the scammer. If they phone, hang up. If they send emails or letters, do not reply. If you maintain contact, they will only try to get more money or information out of you. Contact your bank immediately. They will have a policy to deal with fraud. If you have sent money through another bank or transfer service, contact the service you used to do that. Tell family or friends what’s happened. It can be hard to admit that you have been tricked and lost money, but scammers rely on this shame and secrecy because it helps them keep scamming others. Report the scam: - investment or financial scams - Financial Markets Authority: https://www.fma.govt.nz/scams/report-a-scam/ - cyber security incidents (including phishing scams) - NCSC https://www.ncsc.govt.nz/report/business-and-individuals/ - text scams and email SPAM - DIA - https://www.dia.govt.nz/Spam-Report-Spam - Other scams and fraud: New Zealand Police - https://webforms.police.govt.nz/en/form/fraud-scam-cyber Contact Victim Support via their website or by phoning 0800 842 846. They can provide free emotional and practical support and information.