Urgent Fraud Alert: Consumers warned to secure their finances against Storm Scammers

 

Bank of Ireland is warning consumers to keep their information secure following reports of scammers seeking to take advantage of storm compensation schemes to access personal and financial information.

Fraudsters target consumers through email, text and phone call, posing as utility companies, urging customers to make claims for compensation by clicking on a link, opening an attachment or calling the number provided in the text message.

While the messages may appear legitimate, they are designed to capture your personal and often financial information, which can then be used to target you in a follow up fraud attempt.

Bank of Ireland’s advice:

• If you get an unsolicited email, call or text, which asks for your details do not send or share them – contact the company, using a number confirmed from the company website or your bill to confirm if the request is legitimate.
• Verify any compensation offers with your utility company directly – their official websites will have details of any available schemes. Find their website using an independent online search or details from your bill – don’t click on links provided in a text message, email or social media post.
• Keep your bank card and bank account details secure – never share your details with a cold caller who advises they need them to process a payment.  Always check directly with the company, using contact information from your bill or independent online search.
• Never click on links or attachments in unexpected text messages, email or on social media – you could be downloading software that can enable fraudsters to access your phone or computer.
• Don’t feel pressured to complete the details immediately – a legitimate company won’t mind you taking time to confirm the details independently.
• When it comes to unsolicited texts, calls or emails – always remember to Stop, Think and Check!

Allison Ewing, Fraud Customer Experience Manager, Bank of Ireland UK said: 

“Scammers are always ready to take advantage of consumers and capitalise on unfortunate circumstances, which is why we are warning customers  to be alert and to keep their personal and financial information secure. Never click on a link or attachment sent by email or text and never share your bank account or card details with a cold caller.  If you think you might have been the victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately so they can take action to help you.”

Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7, on the Freephone line 0800 121 7790, or if they think an email or text is suspicious they can send it to 365security@boi.com. More advice and information on fraud is available at: Security and Fraud – Bank of Ireland UK