Credit card scam alert

The Commerce Commission is warning Kiwis not to fall for a scam where people are offered a refund on overcharges on their credit cards, but are then asked to pay a deposit in order to receive the money.

The scammers seem to vary their stories, but Greg Allan, the Commerce Commission’s Enforcement Manager, Wellington, said the common component was that people were being asked to pay money to get a refund.

"Think about it, that’s just not right," said Mr Allan.

The commission has received several complaints in recent days from people who have been targeted. The complainants were told they were eligible for a $3000 refund of overcharges on their credit card.  They were then asked to pay a sum of between $100 and $300 in order to receive the payment.

The payments were to be made through the Western Union or the Post Office.

In one case the scammers said they were operating on behalf of the Commerce Commission, and in another case said they were from the New Zealand Bankers’ Association.

"This is without a doubt a complete scam. The Commission has not ordered repayments for credit card overcharges, and neither has the New Zealand Bankers Association,” said Mr Allan
Mr Allan said the most effective way to deal with scams of this sort was simply to hang up on them.

"Do not give your bank account details and do not pay any money. If the caller appears to already have your credit card or bank account details, or you have provided them, contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately,” said Mr Allan.

If you are approached with this kind of scheme report it to the Commerce Commision, either via their website or an email.

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