UNICEF NZ Warning People about Scam Using its Name

UNICEF NZ is asking people to be wary of phone calls which ask for large sums of money on behalf of the charity or request a donation in return for a large sum of money.

The charity has been made aware of a scam currently taking place, where a caller (claiming to be from the IRD) informs individuals that they are entitled to a large sum of money.

When the individual calls a Wellington based number to claim the money, they are asked to donate to UNICEF before the money is released.

UNICEF has nothing to do with this activity - it is a scam. UNICEF NZ has reported it to Scamwatch run by the New Zealand Ministry of Consumer affairs.

With much in the news about “phishing attacks” and spam email, UNICEF NZ is also reminding people to be wary of emails that contain inaccurate information about UNICEF and, in the worst instances, claim to be from the charity.

Scams in the past have ranged from phishing emails asking for bank details to others claiming to be from UNICEF offering jobs or prizes. Others concern incorrect information about salary packages of senior staff from a range of NGOs, including UNICEF.

UNICEF NZ Executive Director Dennis McKinlay warns "There is a lot of incorrect information being circulated regarding UNICEF. Please be particularly wary of websites, e-mails and even phone calls offering jobs or prizes on behalf of UNICEF or asking for large sums of money - these are fabricated and fraudulent.

“Authentic email and phone communication from UNICEF does not ask for large sums of money or offer incentives to donate.
“If you have any questions over the validity of an offer or are worried about email or phone communication you have received regarding UNICEF, please contact our office on 0800 243 575 or email 2helpkids@unicef.org.nz
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