If you think you’ve been scammed, for example, after clicking a link in a message about a delivery or purchase — act quickly.
Acting quickly gives you a better chance of recovering your money through your bank or payment provider, but recovery is not guaranteed.
Your refund chances depend on how you paid
Credit or debit card — You can request a chargeback through your bank
Online platforms (for example, marketplaces) — Use the platform’s buyer protection or dispute process
Bank transfer — Recovery is less likely, but contact your bank immediately
Gift cards or cryptocurrency — Recovery is very unlikely
Scams may also start with unexpected messages (for example, texts or emails pretending to be delivery companies like NZ Post). Do not click links or make payments unless you have verified the message directly.
If you’ve clicked a suspicious link, shared details, or made a payment (for example, from a delivery or purchase message), contact your bank immediately to try to stop or reverse the payment.
Then secure your accounts and report the scam. Act quickly — your chances of getting your money back depend on how fast you respond.
Scammed – Act now
Step 1 – Stop the payment
- Stop all contact with the seller
- Contact your bank or card provider immediately
- Ask to stop or reverse the payment (chargeback)
Step 2 – Secure your accounts
- Change your passwords
- Enable extra security where possible
Step 3 – Keep records
- Save receipts, emails, and screenshots
- Keep tracking information
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity
Step 4 – Report the scam
- Report it to the platform where it happened (for example, marketplace or social media)
- Report it to the National Cyber Security Centre
- Let others know — share your experience with friends and family to help them avoid the same scam
Reporting helps prevent harm to others. You can also report a scam to organisations like the New Zealand Police, Netsafe, or other relevant regulators.
Report a cyber security issue(external link) – National Cyber Security Centre
Report online fraud, scam or cyber incidents(external link) – New Zealand Police
Home(external link) – Netsafe
Act quickly
Contact your bank immediately — delaying can reduce your chances of getting your money back and may affect chargeback timeframes.