Fake Celebrity Investment Scam – Multiple trading platforms

The scammer creates an advertisement on a social media platform featuring a fake news article, appearing to be from a reputable New Zealand media platform. The ad includes the picture of a New Zealand celebrity with an attention-grabbing headline. The ad does not at first glance appear to be about investing.

Clicking on this ad leads to a fake news article on an imposter website designed to look like a reputable New Zealand news platform. This article describes an interview with the celebrity where they discuss making big profits using a certain investment platform. 

The article contains a link to the website of an investment platform – often trading cryptocurrencies or foreign exchange – where people are asked to register for an account and provide contact details.   

After providing this information, a call is received from someone claiming to be a broker or a financial adviser instructing the person to make a payment of $250 USD or €250. 

They may instruct the person to download remote access software such as “AnyDesk” so the fake adviser can “help” with the investments.

The scammer will transfer “profits” to the victim’s bank account giving a false impression of legitimacy. 

Instructions are then made to make higher investments, and dashboards are provided tracking these apparent investments.

When the victim asks to withdraw funds, they are told they must first pay a high fee to release the money. But even if these fees are paid, no money is returned.

Stop all contact with the scammer and do not send any money.

Contact your bank immediately. Ask if a transaction reversal is possible. If you sent money using another payment service provider, ask them to trace the funds.  

If you have downloaded remote access software on the instructions of the scammers, immediately contact an IT professional to have your device checked for malware. If you have accessed your bank account or other payment systems while the remote access software was operating on your device, report this to the relevant account providers.  

If you keep getting phone calls from scammers, report them to your telecommunications provider.  

If you are getting spam emails and text messages, report these to the Department of Internal Affairs here: Spam-Report-Spam - dia.govt.nz. 

Tell a trusted relative or friend what has happened. They may help you see the situation more clearly, help you deal with the scammers, and suggest what to do next. 

Contact Victim Support on 0800 842 846 or visit their website. They can provide free emotional and practical support and information.