ALERT: New alert over flood of calls to Kilkenny residents claiming to be from gardai
Kilkenny gardai are reminding residents once again to be “fraud aware” as they continue to receive reports from the public of calls from fraudsters claiming to be from the Government, State Agencies or Garda stations.
The type of calls, spam automated calls to mobile phones typically informs the recipient that their PPS number has been compromised and they are required to take action.
Usually, the receiver is told to follow instructions and requests them to Press 1 to speak with an investigator or official. The caller is then asked to provide personal data.
In some cases, a second call is received from a different person reassuring the victim that the incident is genuine.
Many Kilkenny residents have recently fallen victims of these calls and gardai have once again urged caution among the public.
The advice of An Garda Síochána if you do receive a spam call is:
- Do not engage with the caller.
- Do not follow the automated instructions – Do not press 1 etc.
- Never disclose personal or financial information.
- Never transfer money if requested to do so.
- Hang up and end the call.
- Do not return the call.
A local Garda spokesperson said: “We are urging the public to spread the word of fraud prevention as people continue to fall victim to scams on a daily basis.
“If you believe you have fallen victim to this scam report the matter at your local Garda Station. Always keep your personal information safe and be fraud aware,” the spokesperson added.
