'Speak with older relatives': Limerick gardai issue warning after elderly man targeted in phone scam
A man in his 80s received a phone call from someone claiming to be from his broadband provider, saying he was due a refund
Limerick gardai are urging members of the public to remain vigilant against phone scams after an elderly man was tricked into handing over access to his bank account.
Making an appeal about the incident, Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer at Henry Street garda station said: "A man in his 80s received a phone call from someone claiming to be from his broadband provider, saying he was due a refund.”
She added that the caller then asked a series of questions, with the victim following instructions, believing the call to be genuine.
“This, unfortunately, led to access to his bank account, and money was subsequently stolen," said Sgt O’Halloran.
The local crime prevention officer explained that people need to be very cautious when providing bank details to anybody.
"Legitimate companies or banks will never ask for banking details, PIN numbers or passwords over the phone. If you receive an unexpected call asking for financial information, hang up and contact the company directly using a trusted number."
Sgt O'Halloran concluded: "We’d also encourage people to speak with older relatives and neighbours in our communities about these scams, keeping this conversation going and encouraging awareness and vigilance for these types of crimes."