You can read what it entails here.
Gardaí are warning residents in the midlands of a new text scam, know as the 'grandparent scam'.
It involves a random text message being sent, claiming to be from a family member who needs money or are in some sort of trouble that needs to be kept a secret.
Here's what to look out for...
The person sending the text message will pretend to be:
- A family member (son/ daughter/ sibling/ grandchild) who has lost their phone and is making contact on a new phone number.
- They are usually based in a foreign jurisdiction.
- The fraudulent text will state they require urgent financial assistance, for example to pay an urgent medical bill or fine.
- The victim of this fraud will then make a direct payment to the fraudster’s account.
- An Garda Síochána are advising the public to be wary of unsolicited text messages from unknown numbers.
- Do not volunteer information as fraudsters are known to ‘fish’ for facts which they then use to make themselves sound more credible.
- Resist the urge to act immediately, no matter how dramatic the story is.
- Verify the person’s identity – ask questions that a stranger couldn’t possibly answer; call a family member to verify if someone is operating under a different number even if you have been told to keep the story a secret.
- Do not send cash, gift cards or money transfers – once the fraudster receives the money, it’s gone.
- Trust your instincts.
The fraudster can also be made via social media platforms using fake profiles.
Planning Permission Approved For New 800 Pupil Secondary School In Midlands
Annual Rose Of Tralee Tour Underway
Longford-Westmeath TD Urges Action On Vacant HSE-Owned Buildings
Taoiseach Backs Offaly Camino Proposal
Laois Pride Launch Writing Competition In Memory Of Joe Drennan
Laois Truck Driver Arrested For Driving Overweight Truck Under Influence
Offaly Business Closed Over Food Safety Breach
Gardai Continuing Laois Meadow Fire Investigation