AIB issue warning on scams after customer is conned out of €150,000

AIB is urging customers to be cautious after someone was scammed out of €150,000. 

The customer was convinced to transfer the sum of money after being told they owed capital gains tax. 

They were also promised they would receive returns on it. 

Scammers are targeting individuals through social media, WhatsApp groups, fake cryptocurrency platforms, and professional-looking platforms.

That’s according to the latest AIB Fraud Trend for the third quarter of 2025.

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Another scam victim lost €35,000 after trusting someone who claimed to be investing on their behalf.

This is common as fraudsters often pose as legitimate financial advisors or companies, offering high returns on investments in cryptocurrency, property, or other assets. 

Victims are pressured to act quickly and make payments using crypto wallets, or unfamiliar platforms that use methods that are difficult to trace or reverse.

“If something seems even slightly too good to be true, it probably is. We recommend that customers who wish to invest seek independent financial advice before parting with their money," Mary McHale, Head of Financial Crime, said.

AIB has released a number of tips to use to protect yourself. They are:

• Verify before you invest: Check if the firm is regulated and confirm the identity of the person
  contacting you.
•  Be sceptical of urgency: Scammers often push for quick decisions. Take your time and
  remember to always ‘Wait a sec, double check’ before parting with your money.
•  Ignore celebrity endorsements: These are often fake.
•  Watch for unusual payment methods including requests for using crypto wallets, or unfamiliar platforms are red flags.

AIB's fraud helpline is open 24/7. 

If you feel the need to get in touch with it, you can contact someone for help on 1800 24 22 27.