Limerick gardai issue warning over latest scam targeting parents

GARDAI have issued a warning about a scam that is currently doing the rounds in Limerick. 

A number of people have contacted gardai about the scam, over messaging apps, which has come to light in recent weeks.

"A woman who has three children was at home with them last week when she received a WhatsApp that read: 'Hi Mum, my phone is broken, this is my new number, will you save it and text me through WhatsApp when you see this please',” said divisional crime prevention officer Sergeant Ber Leetch.

"She said that as she was looking at her three children she knew it was a scam but she believes that any mother could be taken in by this message," she added.

In another incident, a woman received a text message that read: "Hi Mam and Dad I’ve changed my number, text me if you receive this, thank you.”

Investigation underway following theft of 'green diesel' from Limerick farm

In the two incidents highlighted, the women quickly realised the messages were fake but gardai are fearful that some people will be scammed.

"Usually if a parent engages, that is if they reply, the next message goes on to say that as the 'child’s' phone is broken they don’t have access to their bank account and need money. A bank account number is provided and I know that a number of parents have been scammed out of money in this way," explained Sgt Leetch.

"These messages are “hooks” which will work with some people and get them to engage with scammers. The way to prevent this scam is to ring your child’s phone to check that they are ok and then block the number," she added.