The Department of Internal Affairs

Te Tari Taiwhenua | Department of Internal Affairs

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Warning - Beware of Scam impersonating AML/CFT Group

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15 November 2023

Please beware of an overseas phishing scam that is impersonating Department of Internal Affair’s Anti Money Laundering/Counter Financial Terrorism Group (AML/CFT). Scammers are impersonating officials, via email and phone calls, asking for personal financial information, the payment of fees and money transfers into cryptocurrency or different bank accounts.

Please note, the AML/CFT Group does not send requests payments, or for individuals to transfer funds.

The Department of Internal Affairs only regulates businesses captured by the Anti Money Laundering & Countering Financing of Terrorism Act in New Zealand and would never request funds from a business or a customer.

If you receive any suspicious requests from anyone stating they are the AML/CFT Group, please stop communication immediately and contact us as at amlcft@dia.govt.nz to confirm if it’s legitimate or a scam.

What to do if you may have been scammed

Scammers may use a variety of tactics to gain the trust of their victims, such as posing as legitimate companies or organisations, offering fake investment opportunities, or using emotional appeals to exploit someone’s vulnerabilities. If you think you have been scammed: 

1. Stop all contact with the scammer 

2. Do not make any more payments 

3. Contact the bank or service you sent money through

For more info visit the DIA Website - How to Report Scams

If you have been targeted by a phishing scam in New Zealand that attempts to get your personal information:

If you are overseas, please report the scam to your local police or look up your countries responsible scam agency.

If you suspect you have been targeted by an investment or financial scam, report the scam to the FMA.

For more information visit the FMA Website - Report a Scam