Cork gardaí investigating several cases of online fraud

Gardaí in Cork are currently investigating a number of cases of online fraud as reported cases have increased by almost 80% nationwide in 2025.

This is according to data published by AIB, which shows that in January and February of this year, there was an overall increase of 79% observed in the amount of reported phone call or vishing fraud, compared to the same two months of last year.

AIB have said that these fraud attempts are targeting both personal and business customers, with callers claiming to represent reputable companies and financial institutions in order to gain access to personal data.

Common tricks used on these calls include offering a refund for a recent purchase, claiming to stop a payment that is fraudulent on your account or claiming to fix an issue with your broadband.

During these calls, fraudsters will ask people to download software to their device or to visit a ‘secure’ website, which in turn, allows them to take control of the device, and by providing codes, allows them to access personal accounts and to take money.

A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said that gardaí in Cork are aware of and currently investigating local incidents of fraud.

“An Garda Síochána, through the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB), have been contacted by numerous banks and financial institutions who are experiencing very high levels of smishing (text message) fraud,” the spokesperson said.

“Gardaí advise the public not to give out their personal or banking information when receiving unsolicited phone calls, emails and texts, and not to click on any links.

“Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of fraud should contact their local gardaí or any garda station.”

Head of financial crime with AIB, Mary McHale said: ”Fraudsters will use any means to steal your money.

“They will pose as legitimate companies or bank staff to trick you into downloading software and providing personal and financial information.

“They may even mimic a company’s genuine phone number,” she added.

“We urge people not to let their guard down and remain vigilant - take a moment and ask yourself, could this be a scam?

“Our fraud helpline is open 24/7 to support our customers when they need us.”

For more information or to report a fraud case, visit: https://aib.ie/security-centre or call the fraud helpline on 1800 24 22 27.