The National Cyber Security Council has this evening issued a warning to anyone donating to help those in Ukraine over the coming weeks and months.
As the Russian invasion continues, many different charities and donation lines have been set up for those wishing to send money to help those affected.
Among the many legitimate sites, are some fraudulent setups that are conning people with good intentions out of money - which will never make its way to helping those in need.
The type of scam, known as phishing, is rife in Ireland at the moment after spiking during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In response to the fraudulent behaviour seen on some sites and email chains purporting to support Ukrainians amid the invasion, the Nation Cyber Security Council has released the following tips.
Make sure to:
- Research charities before you donate
- Beware of unusual payment methods like wire transfers or gift cards
- Beware of emails pressuring you to donate
As well as this, they have warned donors to check any emails they have received, and make sure they have a real email address linked to an organisation.
You should also be wary of “general or impersonal greetings” according to the warning, and don’t offer up any personal information - including bank details - via email or text.
Unsolicited emails that claim to be charities raising funds during this crisis are generally a set up, and so do not click on any links sent on.
