Limerick gardaí warn public after woman loses money in online fraud

LIMERICK gardaí have issued a warning about text message scams after a woman in her 40s reported losing money in an online fraud.

Sergeant Michelle O’Halloran, Crime Prevention Officer Henry Street Garda Station said:

"A woman in her 40s reported to Henry Street Garda Station that she received a text message appearing to be from a delivery company."

"The message stated her parcel was being held in customs and requested payment of a fee. She clicked on the link, which brought her to a fraudulent website posing as delivery company, and entered her card details. She later discovered an unauthorised transaction on her bank account."

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Sgt O'Halloran added: "We strongly advise people never to click on links in unsolicited texts or emails and never to share personal or banking details online. Always go directly to official websites and remain vigilant when shopping online."

"We hear of these type of frauds, week after week, particularly text message scams."

The local crime prevention officer advised locals to be extremely cautious of unexpected texts or emails, especially those claiming to be from delivery companies or banks. "Never click on links in unsolicited messages and never share banking or personal details. Legitimate companies will never ask for full card details, PIN numbers or security codes by text."

Sgt O'Halloran concluded: "We would ask people to trust their instincts and report anything suspicious to gardaí immediately. Community vigilance plays a vital role in preventing crime and remember to contact 999 or 112 in the case of an emergency."