Spark customers warned about scam phone calls

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People are being warned of a scam doing the rounds involving people saying they are calling from Spark (formerly Telecom).

Raetihi man David Berry got a call yesterday at 10.45am from a man with a strong Indian accent warning him he would lose his internet connection if he didn't get on his computer and follow some instructions.

The man was insistent, calling back three times and even handing over the phone to his "technical head" who, Mr Berry said, "sounded like the same man trying to disguise his voice".

Mr Berry said he managed to call Spark at the same time and was told there were no such problems. "I'd just like to warn people about it - especially older people. It was so blatant, and saying they were from Spark might confuse people."

Spark spokesperson Lucy Fullarton said Spark would never ring a customer out of the blue. The only reason we would call was if you had rung us.

"Customers should never give out personal information over the phone. If someone has inadvertently done this, call your bank immediately."

She said Spark was aware of the scam and had sent out an advisory notice on Friday.