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An alleged text scammer attempting to splash out on luxury goods worth $6000 is facing fraud charges after an unsuccessful designer shopping spree.

Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton said police were called to Auckland’s Newmarket on August 10 after a woman tried to make a hefty purchase during a high-end shopping trip.

The woman involved is allegedly part of a text scam ring that has recently made a resurgence.

“A woman had tried unsuccessfully using multiple phones to make a payWave purchase in excess of $6000.

“Police were called after the woman then left the shop and attempted to enter another high-end retailer.

“Police were contacted by security at the time and the woman was arrested,” Bolton said.

An alleged text scammer attempting to splash out on luxury goods worth $6000 is facing several fraud charges. Photo / File

“It will be alleged that unsuspecting Kiwis’ credit card details were used by ghost tapping with several smart phones,” Bolton said.

A Chinese national, 25, appeared in the Auckland District Court and was remanded in custody until her next appearance on August 25.

Bolton said police have laid seven charges of obtaining by deception, and further charges are likely.

Police urge extreme caution

Police are urging extreme caution after reports of alarming messages circulating in New Zealand.

Police said many have reported receiving reminders from “NZ Police” or “NZTA” reminding them to pay their unpaid fines or tolls.

“I know these texts can catch some people off guard and leaving you feeling flustered,” Bolton said.

“Pause, and think, ‘do I know where this message is coming from?’

“It’s almost certainly scammers trying to steal your credit card or banking details.”

Police said several red flags will suggest a scam, including an unknown international number, an unusual weblink and often poor grammar and spelling mistakes.