The Rise of Online Scams in New Zealand

New Zealand shoppers are increasingly falling prey to fake online selling sites, making it harder to distinguish between legitimate and counterfeit retailers. According to recent research by Avast Malware, nearly 80,000 counterfeit websites posing as genuine retailers have been identified, targeting popular brands such as Pandora, Zara, Swatch, and H&M.

The Threat of Online Scams

These scams are set up with one purpose: to make people part with their hard-earned money. Netsafe’s chief online safety officer, Sean Lyons, warns that the numbers are significant, with estimated losses of over $2 billion to New Zealanders in previous years.

However, some experts believe this figure may be even higher, as there is no central repository gathering this information. Jessica Walker, acting head of research and advocacy at Consumer NZ, notes that the lack of a centralized database makes it difficult to accurately estimate the extent of the problem.

The Danger of Centralizing Scam Reporting

Walker advocates for New Zealand to follow Australia’s lead and create a central hub for reporting online scams. Having one stop shop would make a significant difference in identifying and combating these threats, especially during peak holiday periods when scammers tend to escalate their activities.

Scammers can strike at any time of the year, but they really up their game during certain holiday periods. According to Lyons, there is definitely a boost around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with an increase in reports and proliferation of fake sites.

The Red Flags You Need to Watch Out For

While some may look for red flags such as a .nz domain name, Domain Name Commissioner Barbara Pearse notes that this is not a guarantee. A .nz domain does not necessarily indicate that the website is being operated in New Zealand or is legitimate.

Protecting Yourself from Online Scams

Lyons emphasizes the importance of people being more cautious when shopping online, as scammers rely on individuals being rushed and eager to make purchases, making them less likely to take the time to properly check a website’s credibility. Pearse advises checking a site’s credibility in other ways, such as looking for reviews or contact information.

The Importance of Staying Vigilant

The rise of online scams highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and education. As technology evolves, so too do the tactics used by scammers. It is crucial that consumers stay informed and aware of these threats to protect themselves and their hard-earned money.

With the evolution of technology, it is becoming easier for scammers to scam, and harder for customers to see red flags.

A Call to Action

As we move forward, it is essential that New Zealand takes proactive steps to combat online scams. By centralizing reporting and sharing information, we can work together to create a safer online environment for everyone.

“Having that one stop shop would make such a difference,” says Walker. “It’s really hard to know where to go and especially when you have a near miss.”

Stay informed and stay safe online by following reputable sources and taking the necessary precautions.