Garda Warns of Scams After Limerick Woman Loses Substantial Sum to Fraudsters

“This is a particularly concerning type of scam because the caller presents themselves as someone who is trying to protect your money, when in reality they are attempting to gain access to it,” said Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer at Henry Street garda station.

A Limerick woman lost a substantial sum of money after falling victim to a phone scam involving a caller claiming to represent a financial institution. An Garda Síochána said that the call originated from an Irish telephone number, with the caller warning the victim about a suspicious transaction that required immediate blocking. The victim was subsequently asked to confirm her banking details, including the last and first eight digits of her bank card, along with her CVV and expiry date.

Sgt O’Halloran emphasized that financial institutions will never ask customers to disclose their PIN, full card details, passwords, or one-time security codes over the phone. Police advised the public to remain vigilant regardless of caller ID spoofing that makes numbers appear genuine.

Anyone receiving similar calls should hang up immediately and contact their bank using the official phone number printed on the back of their card or via the official app.

In a separate Limerick incident, a man in his 70s received a text message containing what appeared to be a legitimate delivery notification link. After clicking the link and entering his bank card details, his card was cloned, and fraudsters attempted an unauthorized withdrawal. The man avoided financial loss because the bank intervened and blocked the transaction before the funds left the account.

Sgt O’Halloran warned the public to exercise extreme caution when receiving unexpected text messages, particularly those containing links or requests for delivery fees.

“If you receive a suspicious message, do not engage with it,” O’Halloran told the Limerick Leader. “Delete it and, if you have any concerns, contact the company directly using contact details you have sourced independently.”

Authorities recommend specific steps for residents who suspect they have been targeted by financial fraudsters or phishing attempts.

* Contact your bank immediately to secure the compromised account and investigate whether unauthorized transactions can be recalled.
* Report the fraud to local Gardaí and change any compromised passwords or PIN codes right away.
* Consult a trusted family member or friend before making financial decisions under pressure.
* Avoid downloading any applications at the request of an unexpected caller or text message.

“I would also encourage people to speak to a trusted family member or friend before making any financial decisions if they feel uncertain or under pressure,” O’Halloran told the Limerick Leader.