Gardai warns to be vigilant against cybercriminals
Dublin: Gardai warn to be vigilant against cybercriminals The Garda’s warning came in the aftermath of the HSE’s cyberattack. There were fears that the HSE cyberattack would expose people’s personal and medical information online. According to the Gardai, anyone who believes they have been the victim of a recent criminal cyberattack should contact their local garda station.
Cyberscams via phone, text, and email are common. Gardai explain that obtaining people’s personal information and bank details is common practise.
There are signs that fraud is being committed by impersonating employees of the HSE, the Department of Social Welfare, and other government agencies. An Garda Síochána has reminded the HSE, or Department of Social Security, that they will not ask for personal information of people for any reason. Dates of birth, PPS numbers, or bank account details are not required by any agency. So none of these should be handed over to anyone.
Scams like this…
Gardaí also publicised the fraud practises common to online criminals. They are as follows:
Due to underpayment or overpayment for goods or services
Regarding eligibility for a refund or social welfare payment
In the name of investigation in connection with criminal activity
In the name of leakage of personal information
The call may also come in the name of the Garda…
Gardai said online fraudsters are also using common, widespread electronic means to contact individuals, including automated phone calls, tests, and emails with general information. These communications will not contain any personal information but will contain the general concerns and fears of the community.
Phone calls from automated systems may come from numbers that appear to be official or authentic. This will most likely include phone numbers from state agencies such as the Garda Sochána. It’s also possible that they have access to our personal information. But it should be understood that it is all a scam. It is possible that you will be asked to call again to confirm the call. Under no circumstances should you call back.
Only one of the advertised numbers of the concerned organisation, agency, or company should be contacted to verify the authenticity of the call.
These must be in memories…..
Things to always keep in mind with such scam calls:
Never engage with the caller.
DO NOT press any number the caller says (DO NOT press 1, etc.).
Do not click on any links in emails or text messages.
Do not download remote access software or apps.
Any concerns should be reported to your local garda station.
Do not send money to such people under any circumstances.
Do not withdraw money or deposit cryptocurrency at ATMs.
If someone calls the house, they should only be allowed in after being identified. If in doubt, call the local station or 999.
Take screenshots of emails, text messages, or other communications.
The Garda Síochána also reminds the local Garda station to be contacted in all circumstances.
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