ANZ has urged customers to be alert to scams across the holiday season as cyber criminals often look for ways to take advantage of festive celebrations.

ANZ Cook Islands Country Head, Jason Murray said ANZ works with industry peers, regulators, representatives from consumer and business groups here in the Cook Islands to alert and educate customers and staff about new and emerging scams.

ANZ Regional Executive, Pacific, Sarah Stubbings said: “Scammers don’t take a break over Christmas, so customers should remain vigilant.”

“As always, ANZ works around the clock to help protect customers from fraud, but the best gift you can give yourself this December is to know how to identify and protect yourself from scams.

“We always say, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Customers should contact ANZ if they notice any unusual activity on their bank cards or accounts. We’re here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” Stubbings said.

ANZ customers can call the local ANZ Rarotonga Contact Centre on 21750, visit the branch or use BankMail through their ANZ Internet Banking or ANZ Pacific App to securely send and receive messages from ANZ.

Murray suggested some simple tips to stay safe online:

1. Protect your personal information: Use strong passwords, never share your PIN or password with anyone. Monitor your bank transactions, credit card and any online shopping accounts. Update your social media privacy settings.
2. Be cautious of tempting offers: Faketravel and holiday deals. Some things are too good to be true. Be mindful of offers that place a time pressure on a purchase, urging you to buy now.

1. Beware new online stores: Watch out for new online stores with very low prices. While they may be tempting, it could be a scam. Don’t rush into a quick decision. Trust your instincts. Ask someone.

1. Don’t click on unexpected or unusual links: Never click on links sent via text, email or pop-up messages on social media. Chances are they will lead to a fake website. Always search for the official site in a web browser.

1. Check the website URL: Scam sites sometimes use spelling very similar to the URL of official sites. Check for dashes, symbols, or typos in the URL.