GARDAÍ are warning people to be vigilant for a scam in which a caller purports to be a member of An Garda Síochána.

Gardai have said they recently became aware of a scam in which a person received a call from an Irish mobile number and the caller claimed to be a member of An Garda Síochána attached to the Garda Financial Intelligence Unit.

The recipient of the call was informed that her bank account had been used in connection with a number of fraud offences across Europe.

Over the course of a number of hours, the caller deceived the victim into setting up a Crypto Wallet and she transferred a substantial amount of money from her account to this wallet.

The injured party then became suspicious and contacted An Garda Síochána.

A garda spokesperson is reminding people that An Garda Síochana will never contact a person by phone, email or text in relation to criminal proceedings or fines.

“In this instance, criminals are impersonating An Garda Síochána in an attempt to steal money or personal information. Scammers typically contact victims by phone or email, falsely claiming to investigate a crime, with a warrant for their arrest, or to inform them that their details have been linked to criminal activity, demanding payment or sensitive data like bank account details or PPS numbers.

“An Garda Síochána will never contact you by phone, email, or text to allege that you have committed a crime or to demand immediate payment for fines. You should never respond, click links, provide information, or make payments if you receive such a call or email. If you have fallen victim to this or any type of scam, please alert your financial institution immediately and also report the matter to us.”

Meanwhile, a Senior Services Awareness Event will take place at Cara House in Letterkenny on Monday, September 15.

“Gardaí from the local Community Policing Unit and our Divisional Crime Prevention Officer will be there. These types of events provide a fantastic opportunity for senior citizens to find out more about the local services that are available in their area. It is always a great day’s craic and it is always lovely to meet so many of our local senior citizens for a cuppa and a good chat. Everyone is welcome to call in.”