In recent days, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has issued an important warning to all New Zealand visa holders, Emphasizing heightened vigilance against a deceptive phone scam. The scam, which has seen a surge in reported incidents, involves fraudulent calls purportedly originating from ‘The Immigration Bureau,’ claiming to address a ‘serious problem with your visa.’
The perpetrators behind this scheme employ a cunning tactic, directing recipients to press various numbers for English or Chinese services, adding an air of authenticity to their calls. However, INZ emphasizes that these calls are not authentic communications from Immigration New Zealand and strongly advises against engaging further if such a call is received.
The modus operandi of these scams remains consistent, with the caller claiming to be from ‘The Immigration Bureau,’ creating false alarms about visa issues and offering language options. It is important for New Zealand visa holders, including international students, to be aware that this is not a legitimate outreach from Immigration New Zealand.
To counteract this threat, INZ encourages individuals who receive such calls to report them immediately to CERT NZ, the government agency dedicated to combating online threats and scams. Reporting these incidents is crucial, as it not only helps in preventing further victimization but also aids authorities in taking appropriate action against the perpetrators.
For those who find themselves targeted by this phone scam and need reassurance on their current visa situation, Immigration New Zealand’s Service Centre is available to address any visa-related concerns directly. INZ emphasizes the importance of seeking legitimate guidance and support through official channels.
The callous nature of these scams, intending to exploit individuals by forcing them into revealing personal and financial information or parting with their money, emphasizes the need for public awareness and caution. In these challenging times, staying vigilant and informed is important to protecting personal information and financial well-being.
As the authorities continue to grapple with the surge in these fraudulent activities, the collective responsibility falls on individuals to remain cautious, report incidents promptly, and share information within their communities. By doing so, we contribute to a safer and more secure environment, shielding ourselves and others from falling prey to these unscrupulous tactics.
INZ’s alarm on phone scams impersonating The Immigration Bureau serves as a timely reminder for the public to stay alert, stay safe, and actively participate in the fight against fraudulent activities that threaten the security of New Zealand visa holders.
