Web victim cleaned out

Losing her business and ending up at least $9000 in debt is the price a Masterton mother of three may pay for being hooked by an internet fraudster.

The woman, who is unwilling to be named, was invited by email to become a "mystery shopper" and test Kiwibank's customer service on Friday by depositing $4000 and $5000 into two separate accounts nominated by the fraudster.

Her account was credited with $9000 so she could make the transaction, but this was pulled - like a cheque bouncing - and she is left with the deficit.

The fraudster, who had an Indian accent, called from an untraceable overseas number.