Nice try. It was a scam!

Unfortunately, you missed the signs of a potential scam. Investment scams aim to get you to invest money into non-existent or worthless ventures. Before investing, take a moment to ask yourself... is it really real?
dusk-shield-banner-960x960

Ways to avoid investment scams

  1. 1
    Tahi

    Pause and think

    Take a moment to consider what's on offer. Scam investments sometimes promise high returns with little risk, which is a red flag.

  2. 2
    Rua

    Research - is the business real?

    • Be especially wary if you've never heard of the investment company. Some fake websites collect contact details for call or email follow up.
    • If you know the business is legitimate, check the investment web address (URL) matches the official business website. Search in your browser, don't click on any links in ads or other communication.
  3. 3
    Toru

    Research - is the offer real?

    • Research the official company website to make sure the offer is listed.
    • Call the official number of the business - not the one in the ad - to check the offer is real.
    • Research other similar investments. Is the offer too good to be true, or is it in line with what other companies are offering?
  4. 4
    Whā

    Trust your gut

    If you're unsure, don't risk it.

Latest scams Investment scams

Prize draw now closed

Thank you to those who participated in the ScamSpotter email series and prize draw. For more information see the terms and conditions.

What to do if you've been scammed

Anyone can fall for a scam. If you suspect that you've been scammed, get in touch with us as soon as possible.

24/7 support

Fraud and scam support is available around the clock. Call 0800 113 355 or +64 4 473 1133 from overseas.

0800 113 355

Protect yourself

Simple actions can significantly improve your online and financial security.

What you can do