Gardaí Warn of Fraud Texts and Calls Impersonating Banks and Gardaí

An Garda Síochána has issued a warning about fraudulent texts and phone calls currently circulating across Ireland, with criminals posing as Gardaí or financial institutions in an attempt to steal personal details and money.

The scam messages, known as vishing (voice calls) and smishing (text messages), are being sent by criminals using phone numbers from Ireland, Bulgaria (+359), and Norway (+47). Gardaí have cautioned that these numbers may change as criminals adapt their tactics.

An Garda Síochána is reminding the public that Gardaí will never contact victims by phone to request bank details or to ask them to send money. Anyone who receives such a call or text is advised not to engage with the caller and not to click on any links included in the message.

If there is any doubt about whether a call or text is genuine, Gardaí advise contacting your bank directly using a number already held or sourced from a reputable source.

Smishing texts take many forms, with criminals impersonating banks, delivery companies, utility providers, and even family members or friends. If a message purports to be from a relative or friend, Gardaí advise first attempting to contact that person directly on their known number, or reaching out to a mutual contact who may be with them.

Anyone who has already sent money as a result of such a scam should contact their bank immediately and request that a recall message be sent.

In an emergency, contact Gardaí on 999 or 112. Further advice is available at www.garda.ie.