Gardai have issued a warning over the latest banking scam which is targeting users of social media.
The most recent fraud reported has aimed at customers of a banking institution through ads on Facebook.
People are being advised to be wary of advertisements offering "rewards" for taking a tour of their system.
The links can take users to what appears to be a legit log-in page for their bank - but gardai warn customers' accounts can be emptied in minutes if details are entered.
Gardai have outlined a possible method used by the fraudsters as follows:
• The advertisement refers to internet banking and invites the customer to take a tour of the system for a small reward (€15 or €30)
• The customer clicks on the link, to a 'Fake' log in page.
• The customer enters their login details – these details are now in the hands of the Fraudster.
• The Fraudster takes control of the account, and sets up a new ‘Beneficiary’ on the account, to whom money can be transferred
• The customers will receive an automated text or SMS from the bank, with a code to authorise the addition of the ‘Beneficiary’ to the account.
• The customer will then enter the code into the ‘Fake’ account which is captured by the Fraudsters, or intercepted via malware on a computer, laptop or mobile phone.
Gardai at the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau issued the warning on Thursday morning.
Detective Chief Superintendent Pat Lordan of the GNECB has advised the public to "stop and think".
He said: "Trust your instincts – if it sounds like it is too good to be true, it is probably not true.
"Never download or install a file from an unknown or suspicious source. If in doubt, don't do it.
"I would also like to remind the public to never share banking details, pin numbers or passwords with unknown persons online, by text, SMS, over the phone or any other way."
Public warning:
• Be very weary of advertisements offering a ‘reward’ that leads you to a situation where you have to reveal your financial details, even if it appears to be a genuine Bank website
• Do not click on links in the advertisement
• Check with the bank or other organisation apparently offering the ‘reward’ by searching for that bank or organisation online and independently of the link in the advertisement.
• If the genuine website is not clearly offering the advertisement for a ‘reward’ – the social media advertisement is a fraud. Your money has been protected by a simple check.
