This Christmas – be aware of Bogus Scammers!

As the run-in to Christmas continues, I urge individuals and families across the North Inner City to be mindful of bogus text message scams.

ComReg – the communications regulator has already warned of the increased risk of scam text messages being sent to mobile phones. Some of the warning signs that you should look for is the sender pretending to be from:

• Your bank
• Your Parcel delivery provider
• eFlow
• other utility providers

So, please heed the following advice:

1. Be cautious of unsolicited text messages from unknown senders.
2. Do NOT click on a link or reply to a message.
3. Do NOT share personal information! Legitimate texts never ask you for personal or financial information.
4. Be familiar with how businesses and services you engager with will contact you. Visit their website to find out more or ask them how they are likely to contact you!
5. Verify a sender’s details by visiting the company’s website, or in the case of your Bank, phone the number of the back of your card. NEVER use the contact details in the text.

More information is available on the ComReg website – www.ComReg.ie.

If you believe that you have been the victim of fraud, immediately contact your bank and report it to the Bridewell, Store Street or Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station.