How to stay safe online
Scams are getting smarter. Here’s how to stay safe, what we’ll never ask you to do, and where to get help.
How we contact you
We’ll never ask for your passwords, two‑factor codes, or remote access to your device.
We’ll never ask you to pay by gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer.
We won’t threaten arrest, legal action, or immediate disconnection.
Check the sender: official messages come from our verified phone numbers and email addresses ending in @debtmanagers.co.nz or @intercoll.co.nz
If you’re unsure, hang up or stop replying and contact us using the phone numbers on our website. Do not use numbers or links provided in a suspicious message.
Common red flags
Unexpected contact about money, refunds, missed deliveries, or “security alerts”.
Pressure to act now or keep the request secret.
Requests to move conversations off a platform or to install “support”/“remote” apps.
Payment requests via gift cards, crypto, or unusual bank accounts.
Poor spelling, odd grammar, or slightly wrong email domains (e.g., .co instead of .co.nz).
Scammers use urgency to to rush you into making a mistake, if in doubt:
Stop – don’t click links, open attachments, or send money.
Check – independently look up the organisation’s official contact details and call them.
Protect – change any exposed passwords; enable two‑factor authentication (2FA), update your device, run a security scan.
Report – let us know and check out the service below.
If you think you’ve been scammed
Contact your bank immediately to stop or reverse payments where possible.
Change passwords (email first, then anything related) and turn on 2FA.
Secure your device – update your software and run an antivirus scan, get a trusted technician to clean compromised devices.
Record evidence – screenshots, email headers, phone numbers, account names, and transaction details.
Report it and get support via the resources below.
Report & get help
Consumer Protection – Scamwatch: Advice on the latest scam alerts and what to do if you’re scammed.
Own Your Online (NCSC): For individuals and small businesses to identify an issue and get next steps.
Netsafe: Advice and help with online harm (harassment, impersonation, image‑based abuse) and scam guidance.
Department of Internal Affairs: Forward TXT spam to 7726 (free). Report email spam on the DIA site.
New Zealand Police (105): Non‑emergency reporting for fraud/scams/cyber incidents, call 111 in an emergency.
IDCARE: Not‑for‑profit identity & cyber support. Can help with identity theft, credential compromise and recovery plans.
Privacy Commissioner: Guidance and complaints if your personal information has been mishandled.