News that a financial ombudsman service had uncovered scams using its name and branding drew strong reader interest this week…
Financial Ombudsman, Financial Services Complaints Limited (FSCL), says scams using its name and branding “…are causing concern.”
FSCL says that the scams involve websites and emails using its logo and name, and sometimes the names and branding of other legitimate organisations, too.
It says some examples include:
- Financial service providers falsely claiming to be members of the organisation (FSCL), when they are not
- Emails requesting the release of funds or payment
“If you receive a communication with our name, branding, or from someone claiming to work for us, or be a FSCL member, you can contact us to verify its legitimacy,” it says.
“If the communication requests payment, then it is likely a scam.”
FSCL’s Financial Ombudsman, Susan Taylor, told Riskinfo this highlights why people must be vigilant when sending money to any organisation.
“Always verify details, including full email addresses and website URLs, to ensure they are legitimate. If in doubt, contact the organisation directly using known contact information.”
She adds it’s also a good idea “…to check that organisations have the credentials they claim to have. It often pays to do a bit of research.”
The organisation also notes consumers can:
- Check the Financial Service Providers Register or contact FSCL to confirm whether a provider is a member of its dispute resolution service
- Contact Netsafe.org.nz to report scams
- Contact FSCL if you want to confirm whether a message is from them