Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys has once again reminded the public to take heed of the "very sophisticated text and phone scam" that is circulating at the moment.
In recent days, the gardai and the Departments of Health and Social Protection have issued various warnings about the popularity of this scam.
However, the fraudsters are still continuing their efforts to steal personal data, financial information and money.
In a video that was shared online, Minister Humphries said the scammers' sole purpose is to "steal your personal bank details or your PPS number."
She adds: "Some of these calls and messages are from people claiming to be social welfare officials, and they are not. In one such scam, the phone call begins with an automated message - claiming that your PPS number has been used as part of suspected fraud, such as money laundering or drug trafficking.
"The message then asks you to press 1 to speak to an investigator. These calls and text messages are fraudulent. Do not engage or share personal information and I want to make it absolutely clear, the Department of Social Protection will never call you to ask you for your PPS number or your bank details. We need everyone to spread the word because people of all ages and from all walks of life are getting these calls on a daily basis.
"If anyone calls you, send you a text or emails you out of the blue requesting personal information such as your PPS number or your bank details, they're trying to con you. Please remember, keep your personal information safe and be fraud aware."
Earlier today, Gardaí posted a list of bogus numbers which people should not get trust or get involved with.
Gardaí in Louth have issued the following list of numbers to be wary of.
A statement said: "We have received reports in recent days from members of the public, who had received bogus calls purporting to be from the Department of Social Welfare seeking the persons PPS number and other personal details. Some of the numbers involved begin with the following digits:
- +353 8336
- 080066
- 353 01 888
- 1(647)375
"Gardaí wish to warn members of the public not to engage or share personal information. The Department of Social Welfare will never call you to ask you for your PPS number or bank details.
"Please spread the word because people of all ages and all walks of life are receiving these calls on a daily basis."
