New Zealand Sees 62% Drop in SMS Scams as Government Cracks Down on Fraud

The report details a range of enforcement measures undertaken by the Department, including six high-impact search warrants.

In a major step forward for cybersecurity and public safety, New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs has reported a substantial 62% decrease in SMS scam reports for 2024 compared to 2023. Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden announced the findings alongside the release of the Department's 2024 Digital Messaging Transparency Report, highlighting the agency’s aggressive and increasingly effective approach to combating scam-related crime.

The report details a range of enforcement measures undertaken by the Department, including six high-impact search warrants. These operations led to the seizure of scam-related assets worth nearly $400,000 and the confiscation of $162,000 in cash. A significant milestone in the campaign came when a 19-year-old man from Auckland was arrested. Authorities discovered a cell site simulator in his possession — a sophisticated device that mimics mobile towers to trick nearby phones into receiving scam text messages.

Minister van Velden: “This Is About Protecting the Vulnerable”

Minister van Velden praised the Department’s work, noting that scammers disproportionately target society’s most vulnerable members. “Scams cause serious financial and emotional harm, often preying on vulnerable people in our communities. I’m pleased the Department’s work is making a real impact in reducing scams and holding perpetrators accountable,” she said.

Van Velden stressed that the success of the Department’s campaign goes beyond statistics. It rebuilds public trust in digital communication systems and lays a foundation for safer online transactions — a critical step in easing the economic burden on New Zealanders.

Growing Momentum for National Anti-Scam Strategy

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson, who leads the government’s broader anti-scam strategy, welcomed the report's findings and hinted at additional policy moves. “Online financial scams cause significant harm to New Zealanders – reported losses have been nearly $200 million a year, but some estimate this to be as high as $2 billion,” said Simpson.

He emphasized that scams not only threaten individuals but also weaken the national economy. As people lose faith in the security of online transactions, commerce suffers. “Building back people’s trust by reducing scams is part of rebuilding the economy and reducing the cost of living,” added van Velden, echoing Simpson’s sentiment.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next in the Fight Against Scams

While the Department’s recent successes are commendable, both ministers indicated that the battle is far from over. Simpson alluded to upcoming announcements focused on further bolstering anti-scam measures. These may include tighter regulations, increased collaboration with financial institutions and telecoms, and enhanced public awareness campaigns.

Experts believe that while law enforcement plays a key role, the integration of technology-driven detection systems and stronger inter-agency cooperation will be critical to long-term success. The Department's recent activities show promise in moving towards a more scam-resilient digital environment.

A Safer Future Through Accountability and Innovation

New Zealand’s significant drop in scam activity in 2024 stands as a beacon of progress in a global fight against digital fraud. Through coordinated enforcement, smart technology use, and political resolve, the government is working to restore public trust in online systems and shield its citizens — particularly the vulnerable — from financial exploitation.

As the Department of Internal Affairs continues to strengthen its approach, and with additional measures anticipated from the broader government, New Zealand sets an important precedent in global cybersecurity governance.