A phishing email posing as the AA is currently circulating, targeting locals with a false promise of a "Car Emergency Kit."

The fraudulent email includes phishing links, aiming to steal credit card information by directing recipients to a malicious website.

AA has expressed concern over the misuse of its trusted brand.

“We’re disappointed to have our trusted brand used in a scam,” the AA said, urging members and customers to stay cautious.

They are proactively working to educate the public through various channels.

The fraudulent email urges recipients to click a link and claims they have won a car emergency kit.

Once clicked, users are taken to a website designed to gather sensitive credit card details.

To protect yourself, follow these steps if you receive such an email:

1. Delete the email immediately.
2. If you’ve provided credit card details, contact your bank straight away to replace your card.
3. Report any data breaches to CERT New Zealand at cert.govt.nz

How to Spot a Phishing Email

Phishing scams can be tricky to spot, but AA encourages locals to remain vigilant.

Here are some key ways to identify a phishing email:

• Urgency: If the email pushes you to act quickly, take a moment to verify the sender’s details.
• Check the sender’s address: Always cross-check the domain of the sender’s email against the official AA website to ensure it matches.
• Avoid suspicious links: Hover over any links to see the full URL before clicking. If it looks unfamiliar, don’t click.
• Personal information safety: AA will never request sensitive details such as credit card information or passwords via email.

Phishing scams are becoming more widespread across New Zealand.

AA reminds customers only to use official channels, such as aa.co.nz or an AA Centre, when purchasing products or services to safeguard their personal information.