Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has warned people to be especially vigilant towards fraudsters as Garda figures in south Dublin show that reports of fraud are up 60% on last year in some areas.

Teachta Crowe said:

“At a meeting of the Joint Policing Committee this morning, I heard about the shocking rise in fraud cases that are being recorded by Gardaí right across south Dublin. In some areas, reports of fraud are up 60% on last year.

“Almost all of us will have noticed the huge spike in scam calls and texts that are going around. I have heard from some constituents that they are getting two or three calls a day and have experienced them myself.

“I raised the issue today because of my growing concern that this is getting worse and worse and the very real chance that someone could lose their life savings.

“Scam calls or texts may claim to be from the Revenue, the Department of Social Protection, An Post, banks, or a range of other service providers.

“Never share personal details such as your PPS number or bank details over the phone unless you are completely sure of who you are talking to. Do not be afraid to get a reference number if someone claims to be ringing from the Department of Social Protection or a bank so that you can end the call and ring their main phone number.

“Another type of fraud on the rise again is scam deals on Facebook or DoneDeal. In the run up to Christmas, it is vital that people be vigilant when shopping online and in how they transfer payments.

“Sometimes when you see a great deal or bargain online, it really is too good to be true.

“There are ways however to protect yourself such as buying and selling locally, meeting the buyer or seller in person where it is practical to do so, never sharing your bank details, and always being careful who you share contact information with.”