Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Sean Crowe has invited people to take part in the party’s all-Ireland survey on fraud to share their personal experiences of online scams.

The survey asks members of the public to outline their own experiences of fraud in order to inform policy proposals and as part of a campaign to better support victims of this growing crime.

The survey can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5KQ3DP5

Teachta Crowe said:

“The increase in elaborate fraud and scams over the past year is deeply worrying. There is serious evidence that online fraud is rising during the pandemic, having already been on an upward trend. The number of fraud offences reported has increased nationally by 40% in the last year.

“Consumers must be protected when they shop online, to ensure that they do not fall victim to what are often very sophisticated scams. A number of people, particularly those that are older and vulnerable, have been targeted by scammers and have been robbed of thousands of euro.

“Our survey will help to focus attention on this vital area and I urge those affected in Dublin South West to participate. Take the survey and make your voice heard about what needs to change particularly around greater supports for victims.

“This survey can help establish what is needed to help tackle fraud and keep vulnerable individuals in our communities safe.”