(Picture caption: From 20-23 March, ASB Polyfest 2024 will celebrate its 49th anniversary from its home at Manukau Sports Bowl, in Auckland.)
Beware of scammers targeting Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand and throughout the region is the message being conveyed by ASB ahead of the upcoming ASB Polyfest.
A scam is currently circulating on Facebook and Instagram, which takes advantage of the upcoming ASB Polyfest event to target Pacific communities both in New Zealand and in the Pacific region.
Scammers have created fake social media profiles, with Polyfest logos and branding, which they are using to “sell” tickets and live streaming links for fans, friends and family wanting to watch the upcoming event.
Victims are asked to pay for the fake tickets or access to the livestream via fraudulent payment links, which are used to steal debit and credit card information.
A spokesperson for ASB says the organisation is really concerned about the scam activity, which is hurting the very people Polyfest aims to celebrate.
“We understand this is one of several current scams which are likely to impact these same communities.
“We are aware scammers have also been impersonating Pasifika Festival and sadly, sharing fraudulent links for the funeral of Member of Parliament Fa’anānā Efeso Collins.
“Scam activity of all kinds is on the rise, and I encourage everyone to be vigilant, particularly if you’re asked to make a payment or provide sensitive information.
“If you have friends or family in the Pacific community here or in the region, or who might be interested in these events, let them know.
“Anyone can fall victim to a scam and staying alert to scammers is our first defence.”
Anybody who has clicked on a suspicious link, or entered their payment details, should block their cards in the first instance, and contact their bank immediately.
ASB customers can call 24/7 on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372).
Legitimate tickets to Polyfest cost between $7.50 and $10 each and will only be sold via the iTICKET NZ site.
The event will be livestreamed for free on the ASB Polyfest website from 20 March when the festival begins.
Fans will not be asked to enter any payment details to access the livestream and no tickets will be sold via social media pages or direct message.
How to spot a fraudulent profile: