Canterbury Police are warning members of the public to be vigilant after someone in North Canterbury is reported to have been scammed out of a significant amount of money.
Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Anderson says "the victim was contacted on their landline by a caller who was posing as a member of staff working for a telecommunication company. The caller told the victim they had viruses on their computer and if they weren't removed their internet service would be disconnected"
"The victim was then asked to pay $20 to an overseas account in order for the caller to install antivirus software. Access to the victims computer and bank account led to the caller obtaining significantly more than the $20 they asked for."
Canterbury Police investigations are ongoing and members of the public are urged to contact Police if they have been approached in a similar manner.
"It is highly unlikely that a service provider would ask you to pay money to an overseas account or ask for more money to be paid over and above your current contract in this way. Always check with your service provider before paying any money online to confirm that the call is genuine" explained Detective Senior Sergeant Anderson.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Canterbury Police on 03 363 7400.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404