Gardai warn Limerick public about latest text scam

GARDAI are warning the public about the latest text scam that is affecting consumers. 

The scam involves the victim receiving a text appearing to be from their bank asking them to confirm personal details.

The message will typically ask you to click on a link to a website to verify, update or to reactivate your account.

It may ask you to reply to the text message with personal or financial information or to click on a link to a website.

If it includes a link, the website is a fake one. The website will then attempt to get you to disclose personal or financial information.

If clicked on it also could download dangerous software known as malware to your computer or mobile device.

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Often the text will create a sense of urgency to make you act without thinking e.g. your money is in danger or your account will be frozen.

Garda John Finnerty from Henry Street Garda Station gave some advice to consumers on what to do if they receive such a text.

"A text from your bank will not ask you for any personal information, only ever respond Y or N to bank text messages.

"Never respond to a text message that requests your 4-digit card PIN or your online banking details or any other password.

"Do not respond to unsolicited text/SMS messages before independently validating who the text appears to be from. Never use the number in the text message. For your bank, use the number on the back of your debit / credit card.

"Don’t be rushed. Take your time and make the appropriate checks before responding.

"Do not click on a link, attachment or image that you receive in an unsolicited text without first verifying the text and understanding what you are clicking on".