The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) has warned members of the public to be aware of frauds delivered by text, emails, phone calls and through fraudulent websites.

The advice comes as more people are at home and spending more time online due to measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Data

The bureau says the aim is usually to deceive victims into parting with personal data, allowing fraudsters to gain access to bank accounts or credit cards, or receive payments for goods or services that will never be delivered. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Pat Lordan of the GNECB has urged the public to watch out for text messages, emails, phone calls or websites that ask you to reveal your bank account or credit card number and any associated passwords or codes.

He adds that you should never give personal information to anyone involved in this type of contact. 

Links

The bureau also warns people never to click on a link in an unsolicited text or email from a person or organisation unknown to them, nor to enter any personal information on websites accessed through such links.

You should contact your bank or credit card company immediately if you are worried that your account or card has been compromised, according to Detective Chief Superintendent Lordan.