The Irish public are urged to continue being vigilant as fraudsters persist in targeting people with scam calls.
There has been an increasing number of scams doing the rounds in recent months as swindlers attempt to dupe people into handing over passwords or money.
Gardai and the Department of Social Protection have warned people not to give their sensitive personal and banking details out over the phone.
There has been a wave of calls reported from fraudsters pretending to be from Government or state agencies recently.
Gardai issued an updated warning to the public this week that scam calls and texts are still continuing.
Members of the force in the Kilkenny/Carlow region said they had become aware of fraudsters using local numbers.
While issuing a warning in a post on Facebook, gardai added some humour to the serious topic with a brilliant comment.
They said: "More scam calls are being reported this morning and now they're using 053 or Wexford numbers.
"The advice is the same as usual - don't engage and hang up when you hear the automated voice message.
"Still answer your phone as usual in case it's your Aunty Eithne ringing from Rosslare inviting you down for a paddle and a barbecue! Stay Safe."
Gardai in Donegal also issued some advice to the public on how to be 'scam aware' and avoid the traps laid by fraudsters.
Their advice is:
• Do not engage with the caller.
• Do not return a call to any phone number that you are not familiar with.
• Do not click on any suspicious links in emails or text messages.
• Do not download suspicious apps / remote access software.
• Do not click on any links in emails or text messages.
• Do not send money.
• Do not download APPs / remote access software.
• Do not withdraw money and lodge it into cryptocurrency ATMs.
• Screenshot the email, text message or other communication.
• If concerned please contact your local Garda station
Gardai added that if someone calls to your home, do not let them in without seeing Identification and if in doubt, ring your local station or 999.
They warned that the HSE will not cold call you looking for personal information such as PPS numbers or bank account details.
The force is also asking the public to inform elderly/vulnerable family or neighbours about this advice and tell them not to engage with suspicious calls or text messages.
