�־�� - Hoaxes/urban legends

I have an alert on my screen from the Police saying my files are encrypted/my computer has been blocked, and that I need to pay a fine to have my computer unencrypted/unblocked. What should I do?

webadmin — Wed, 25 Sep 2013 01:03:09 +0000

Do not pay any money. These schemes often ask you to use a legitimate company, such as Ukash, to pay the fine, however this is not from the Police or any other law enforcement agency. This is caused by a type of malware (malicious software) called Ransomware.

Please visit Netsafe’s Security Central website for more information on scams and removal instructions for Ransomware.

Audience:

Computer users

People paying tickets/infringements

I've received an email from Police about carjacking - is it real?

kfbb93 — Mon, 03 May 2010 16:27:41 +0000

The email is a hoax and should be deleted.

For more information see our 2009 hoax email media release.

Audience:

Computer users

I received an email warning me about a scam where an 'engineer' phones your mobile and asks you to press #90 or #09. The email says they will then have access to your SIM card and be able to make calls at your expense. Is this true?

webadmin — Mon, 03 May 2010 16:27:36 +0000

No. This urban myth began as a genuine email from a police officer in England to his business and community contacts. It turned out to be a hoax but continued to spread years after the event. If you receive unsolicited emails, always read them carefully. Double-check the information is still valid by searching the internet before forwarding them to friends, otherwise they can go on needlessly feeding people's fears.

Audience:

Computer users

Is it true that you can use 112 on your mobile for certain emergencies?

webadmin — Mon, 03 May 2010 16:27:33 +0000

Yes - 112 is the international emergency number and if the call is made from New Zealand it will automatically patch through to 111.

112 will work from all mobile service suppliers (GSM).

However, it is more direct to dial 111 in emergencies when in New Zealand.

Is it true that if you're being forced to take money out of an ATM and you put your PIN in backwards, Police will be alerted to come and help you?

webadmin — Mon, 03 May 2010 16:27:28 +0000

No, you need to call 111 in the normal way.

For more information visit the Ministry of Consumer Affairs website on scamswebsite.

�־����� - Hoaxes/urban legends

I have an alert on my screen from the Police saying my files are encrypted/my computer has been blocked, and that I need to pay a fine to have my computer unencrypted/unblocked. What should I do?

I've received an email from Police about carjacking - is it real?

I received an email warning me about a scam where an 'engineer' phones your mobile and asks you to press #90 or #09. The email says they will then have access to your SIM card and be able to make calls at your expense. Is this true?

Is it true that you can use 112 on your mobile for certain emergencies?

Is it true that if you're being forced to take money out of an ATM and you put your PIN in backwards, Police will be alerted to come and help you?

�־�� - Hoaxes/urban legends