New Anti-Scam Measures Strengthen Protection for Kiwis

The Anti-Scam Alliance was established last year to bring together banks, telecommunications companies, technology platforms, government agencies, and consumer groups.

New Zealanders will soon benefit from a stronger set of protections against online scams as the Anti-Scam Alliance introduces a range of new measures designed to make it harder for criminals to target individuals and businesses.

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Cameron Brewer said scammers continue to use increasingly sophisticated tactics, including fake websites, fraudulent text messages, phone calls, and deceptive social media advertising. These schemes can cause significant financial losses while also leaving victims dealing with stress, anxiety, and a loss of trust. The latest package of initiatives reflects ongoing cooperation between these sectors to strengthen New Zealand's response to online fraud.

Payment Checks Expanded Across More Financial Providers

Key development is the expansion of the banking sector's Confirmation of Payee system. The service allows customers to verify that the account name matches the intended recipient before a payment is completed, helping reduce the risk of money being sent to scammers. The system will now be extended beyond traditional banks to include financial technology companies and other non-bank payment providers. Officials believe the broader coverage will provide greater protection for consumers regardless of which financial institution they use.

At the same time, major digital platforms, including Google, Meta, and TikTok, are supporting the introduction of the New Zealand Online Scams Code. The framework is intended to improve efforts to detect, remove, and prevent scam content from reaching users online. Telecommunications providers are also strengthening industry measures designed to identify and block scam calls and text messages before they reach customers.

Early Results Show Significant Savings for Consumers

The latest actions build on progress already achieved through cooperation between financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and online platforms. A recent pilot programme involving several of New Zealand's largest banks, telcos, and Trade Me blocked more than 23,000 malicious internet domains over a six-month period. According to Government figures, those interventions prevented an estimated $23.8 million in potential fraud losses, highlighting the value of coordinated efforts across different sectors.

The anti-scam measures are also supported by recent changes to the Fair Trading Act, which allow online service providers to respond more quickly when suspected scam content is identified. Mr Brewer said there is no single solution capable of eliminating scams completely. He noted that stronger collaboration between industries gives consumers better protection while helping create a safer environment for online banking, shopping, and communication.

The Government believes the combined measures will make New Zealand a more difficult target for fraudsters while improving confidence in digital services used by millions of people every day.