Gardaí warn of text and WhatsApp scam targeting parents: 'Never click the link'
Gardaí are warning parents about a mobile phone scam that is circulating, which involves scammers sending text messages impersonating the child of a potential scam victim.In a post on social media, Gardaí shared a screenshot of a text message sent by a scammer. In the message, the scammer addressed the potential victim as "mam" and said they had changed phone provider and were using a new number temporarily.The message included a link which the scammer said was to a WhatsApp chat, requesting the potential victim to message them. Gardaí said those who receive a scam message of this type should not click the link."Just a reminder to watch out for these scams. NEVER click the link," they said.Often, these scams who pretend to be family members will put pressure on the potential victim by pretending they need money for an emergency. Sometimes scammers may even use your family or friend’s real photo making the scam harder to spot.Impersonation scams are very common - often involving a fraudster impersonating a trusted business, friend or family member to steal your money or personal information.In some cases, scammers use technology to make their call appear to come from a legitimate phone number. Their texts appear in the same conversation thread as genuine messages from an organisation, said Scamwatch.Scamwatch said these are the signs to look out for:You receive a message that asks you to click on a link that takes you to a webpage asking for your username, password, or personal information.There is an urgent request for action, and you are asked to provide personal details or money quickly.An organisation that you think is real, tells you there has been an unauthorised transaction, or asks you to confirm a payment that you didn’t make.A business asks you to use a different bank account and BSB from the last payment you made.You’re contacted by someone pretending to be from a government department, regulator or law enforcement and they threaten immediate arrest, deportation, or ask you to pay money.You’re asked to transfer money to an account to ‘keep it safe’ or for ‘further investigation’.Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content.We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice .For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.
