Gardai have issued an updated warning about the increase in fraudulent calls whereby people receive phone calls from fraudsters claiming to be members of An Garda Síochána.
In a video update that was posted online, Garda Sergeant Geraldine Greene has reminded the public that these scams are still very prevalent and that "people continue to fall victim" every day.
In a statement released online, Gardaí said they have received increased reports of persons receiving phone calls from fraudsters claiming to be members of An Garda Síochána. The number calling appears to be the phone number of a genuine Garda station.
Gardai will never make contact with members of the public in this fashion and there are four stages to these scam calls;
One, the person receiving the call is subjected to a pre-recorded or automated message that prompts them to select an option.
Two, the person is then put through to a person alleging to be a member of An Garda Siochana.
Three, the scammer either looks for personal information or informs the person that their details have been involved or linked to a crime.
Four, after giving over personal details, the victim receives a follow-up call from another scammer seeking more details on behalf of An Garda Siochana. This call appears to be coming from a genuine Garda station number. A reminder that Gardai will never make contact with members of the public in this fashion.
On receipt of these communications, the advice of the Gardai is as follows;
- Do not engage with the caller.
- Do not return the call.
- Do not follow the automated instructions.
- Do not press one etc.
- Never transfer money.
- Never disclose personal or financial information.
- Hang up and end the call.
As the scam becomes more elaborate with updated stories and methods, the Gardai have said that goal is always the same.
"They want to access your sensitive information and get their hands on your money. If you believe you may have fallen victim to this scam, contact your financial institution and report the matter to your local Garda station.
"Gardai are urging the public to spread the word of fraud prevention, as people continue to fall victim to scams on a daily basis. In many cases, the subsequent call from the fraudsters appears to provide reassurance to the victim that this is a legitimate call, which it is not," the statement adds.
