Phishing emails and messages
Find out how to identify and report phishing emails and messages.
Find out what to do if you get a suspicious email or message.
What is phishing
Scammers use fake emails or texts to trick you into giving away personal info, like passwords or credit card numbers.
They often pretend to be a real company and send the same fake email or text to hundreds of people. These messages might have a link that steals your information or installs viruses on your devices. The best defense is knowing what to watch out for and securing your account.
A scammer pretending to be a Trade Me recruiter recently sent out phishing texts. Learn more about the job offer scam message.
Warning signs of phishing emails or messages
Watch out for these red flags:
Asks for personal information
Trade Me will never ask for your credit card details or password via email or text. If an email or text looks fishy, don't click any links.
Demands urgent action
Scammers pressure you to act fast without thinking. If a message says you must do something immediately, take a break and check if it's real.
Comes from a strange address or phone number
If a message seems suspicious, check the sender’s email address or phone number.
Real Trade Me emails always end in:
- @trademe.co.nz
- @email.trademe.co.nz
- mail.trademe.co.nz
- transactional.trademe.co.nz
- transactional-admin.trademe.co.nz
- @site.trademe.co.nz
If it doesn't end with one of these, it's a fake.
Contains bad spelling, grammar or graphics
Fake messages might look okay at first, but closer inspection often reveals spelling mistakes or weird logos. If something seems off, ask a friend or family member for a second opinion.
If you think you’ve been scammed through a phishing email or message, get free, confidential support from Netsafe.
Report phishing emails or messages
If you get an email pretending to be from Trade Me (but isn't) or asks for personal information, don't reply or click any links. Here's what to do:
- If it’s an SMS message, report TXT spam to DIA.
- Report the message to us through the report suspicious contact form.
- Contact Netsafe for free, confidential support.
If a scammer got into your Trade Me account, fill out the report suspicious contact form right away.
Stay safe from phishing scams
Keeping your account secure is the best way to stay safe from phishing scams.
Update your passwords regularly
Use strong, unique passwords for every website. Don't use easy-to-guess info like your pet's name. A great password is at least 10 characters long and mixes numbers, letters, and symbols.
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security. It makes it much harder for someone to access your account even if they know your password. Find out how to set up multi-factor authentication on your Trade Me account.
Follow expert safety advice
- NZ Police - Internet safety
- Cert NZ - Own your online
- Netsafe - Phishing scams
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