New Zealand Police have issued a warning to the public regarding a recent surge in phone scams where fraudsters pose as officers, seeking personal financial information.

Reports have emerged this month of Kiwis receiving calls from individuals claiming to be Police officers, alleging the victims have been victims of fraud or scams and attempting to obtain further financial details.

Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton, from Auckland City’s Financial Crime Unit, disclosed that at least a dozen reports have been made to Police regarding these scam calls, primarily targeting landlines.

"While Police do not have accurate numbers of the scam calls received, it is crucial for the public to remain aware," stated Bolton, emphasising the importance of vigilance in identifying and reporting such scams.

Bolton further highlighted that scammers often operate from overseas, making it challenging for law enforcement to track and prosecute them.

"Scammers thrive off trust and goodwill, so it's vital not to divulge any personal details if you receive such a call," advised Bolton.

New Zealand Police reiterated that they never solicit banking details, card numbers, or passwords over the phone, urging the public to remain cautious and trust their instincts.

In instances of uncertainty, individuals are encouraged to request the caller's details, hang up, and contact 105 for verification.

Additionally, Police underscored the importance of reporting scam incidents promptly and educating oneself about scam awareness through resources available on the NetSafe website.

In addition to phone scams, Police are also alert to the re-emergence of an email scam impersonating authorities from Police and other justice sector partners.

Community members are urged to exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited emails and refrain from responding under any circumstances.

In conclusion, the public is advised to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves against fraudulent activities, both online and over the phone.