ANZ warns of investment scam

ANZ NZ is warning customers to be aware of a new investment scam claiming to be from ANZ Premier Wealth.

In this case, scammers are impersonating ANZ staff and sending out highly professional looking emails offering “treasury and corporate Kiwi bonds”.

The emails claim the investments will be protected by the upcoming Depositor Compensation Scheme and feature ANZ’s name, address, logo, and registration details. 

The scam emails also feature other brand logos such as The Reserve Bank and The Treasury.

“This an example of the kind of increasingly sophisticated investment scam that is using real changes in financial products or regulation – such as the start of the Depositor Compensation Scheme  –  in order to fool people,” says Alan Thomsen, ANZ NZ’s Head of Customer Protection.

The ANZ Premier Wealth scam emails invite recipients to reply to a fake ANZ email address or call a fake ANZ number to start the application process for a bond investment.

“Our advice is clear: Don’t reply to the email or call the number. Delete the message immediately,” Mr Thomsen said.

The fake e-mails may look this this:

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If any customers think they have been the victim of a scam, they should call ANZ immediately on 0800 269 296 (or +64 4 470 3142 from overseas, charges may apply).

Depositor Compensation Scheme

The Government’s Depositor Compensation Scheme (DCS) starts on July 1, 2025, providing eligible customers with up to $100,000 each if their bank or deposit-taker fails.

However, not all investment products are covered by the DCS.

“The scheme does not protect KiwiSaver products, foreign currency accounts or bonds and other tradeable products,” Mr Thomsen said.

“Customers should avoid any investment offers that promise protection under the DCS for these types of products.”

General information on investment scams

Signs an investment could be a scam:

• You receive an unexpected phone call, email, or text message, or respond to a social media post or social media chat, where ultimately you get asked for money or to invest.
• The investment promises high, fast, or low-risk returns.
• There is pressure on you to invest quickly, otherwise you may miss out.
• The person or business promoting the investment isn’t registered with regulatory agencies like the Companies Office, the FMA in New Zealand, or doesn't provide clear and transparent information.
• You’re contacted about recovering funds you’ve lost in a scam/fraudulent investment. 

How to avoid investment scams:

• Before investing money, research the business promoting the investment, the investment opportunity, and the people behind it. Look for information from independent sources, including regulatory agencies, financial analysts, and reputable news outlets.
• When searching online for investment opportunities, check to see if their website seems legitimate.
• Contact the investment provider on a number listed on their official website.
• Take your time to thoroughly look into the investment. Before making any decisions, get advice from a licensed financial advisor or investment professional.