'If you don't pay you'll be arrested' - Sinister new phone scam targeting Kiwis

A new phone scam is targeting people in southern New Zealand, police warn.

Southern District Police say they have received numerous calls reporting an automated phone scam which uses a Kiwi accent that says: "This is the Police you owe money to Inland Revenue, if you don’t pay you will be arrested. Please call 04 889 0505."

When rung a person asks for your name and IRD number which police remind people a Government agency would never call to do.

Police advise if you receive a call and something doesn't seem right, double check their details and hang up if you have any doubts.

Netsafe also provides helpful advice and information on its  website.