Locals are being urged to stay vigilant as new figures reveal that New Zealanders lost $194 million to bank scams last year.

The data, provided by major banks to Consumer Protection for Fraud Awareness Week, shows a slight decrease in the amount lost compared to the previous year, but the ongoing threat remains significant as scammers continue to adapt and develop more complex strategies.

During this week, Consumer Protection is highlighting the importance of recognising the signs of phishing, imposter, and online shopping scams.

These scams are among the most common and can have a serious impact on individuals and families.

Consumer Protection stresses the importance of trusting your instincts when approached for money or personal information.

“If you receive an unexpected request for money or sensitive details, it’s vital to stop the conversation immediately,” the agency advises.

“Don’t hesitate to delete suspicious messages or hang up on calls that seem out of the blue.”

If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, Consumer Protection recommends taking these steps:

• Cease all communication with the scammer
• Stop any further payments
• Contact your bank or the relevant service provider
• Report the incident to Cert NZ

With scammers continually evolving their methods, it’s crucial for locals to stay informed and take action at the first sign of a scam.

Fraud Awareness Week serves as a timely reminder to always be cautious and act swiftly to protect yourself and your family.