The Department of Internal Affairs

Department of Internal Affairs | Te Tari Taiwhenua

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Scam alert: Emails impersonating the AML/CFT Group

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3 March 2026 

Since 2023, we have seen a steady flow of reports about scam emails impersonating the Department of Internal Affairs’ AML/CFT Group. Many of these messages claim that recipients’ funds have been frozen with a business they use, that a payment to the Department is required, or that identity details or account information must be provided. These messages often state that urgent action is necessary to meet law enforcement requirements or to avoid fines purportedly issued by the Department. These are scams.

The Department of Internal Affairs regulates businesses captured by the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act in New Zealand. We do not request payment or ask individuals to transfer funds. We do not investigate scams but have provided guidance below on what to look out for and who to contact.

How these scams work

Scammers copy government branding, including logos and email signatures to look authentic. They refer to AML/CFT requirements and use pressure or threats to make you act quickly. 

What to look out for

  • The sender address does not end with @dia.govt.nz.
  • Requests for personal information, copies of identification or ‘verification fees’.
  • Instructions to pay by cryptocurrency or to move money to unfamiliar accounts.
  • Urgent statements about frozen funds or penalties.

What to do next

  • Stop and check. Do not reply, click links, or open attachments.
  • Do not send money or share personal information.
  • For guidance on recognising and avoiding scams, visit Consumer Protection and the Department’s page on how to report scams.
  • If you have been targeted by a phishing scam in New Zealand, contact CERT NZ.
  • If you are in New Zealand and have lost money or suspect fraud, contact the NZ Police. 
  • If you are overseas, please report the scam to your local police or contact the agency in your country responsible for handling scams and online fraud.

If you are unsure about an email or phone call, contact the AML/CFT Group at aml/cft@dia.govt.nz