Fraud Awareness

Protect Yourself from Phone, Text & Online Scams

Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and unfortunately credit union members across Ireland are being targeted through phone calls, text messages and emails. These scams can appear genuine and convincing, but understanding how they work can help you protect your money and personal information.

Staying alert and following a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of fraud.

Credit Union Members Are Being Targeted

We are aware of cases nationwide where members have received calls from individuals pretending to represent their Credit Union. In some situations, fraudsters may use local phone numbers, familiar names or personal details to make the contact appear legitimate.

These scams are designed to create trust and urgency, encouraging people to act quickly before verifying the request. If you are ever unsure about a call, text or email, pause and contact us directly using a trusted phone number.

How These Scams Typically Work

Many current scams follow a similar pattern. A member may first receive a text message claiming that someone from the Credit Union security or card services team will be in contact. Shortly afterwards, they may receive a phone call from someone pretending to be a staff member.

Fraudsters now use advanced technology that can make phone numbers appear local and text messages appear within genuine message threads. During the conversation, they may already know basic personal information such as your name or address, often gathered from public sources or data breaches, to make the interaction seem more credible.

In some cases, members may receive a one-time passcode or security code and be asked to share it to “secure” an account, stop a transaction or process a refund.

It is important to remember that this is a common fraud tactic. Sharing these codes can give fraudsters access to your account. If this happens, end the call immediately and contact your Credit Union directly.

Important Reminders

Your Credit Union will never:

• Ask for your full card number, PIN, online banking password or one-time security codes
• Send links by text message asking you to log in
• Ask you to transfer money or withdraw cash
• Ask you to remove or delete your mobile banking app
• Ask you not to log into your account

If you are asked for any of the above, the contact is not genuine.

Warning Signs of a Scam

Be cautious if you receive:

• Unexpected phone calls, text messages or emails
• Pressure to act immediately
• Threats that your money or account is at risk
• Requests for personal or financial information
• Instructions not to contact your Credit Union
• Messages or phone numbers that look genuine but seem unusual

⚠ If something does not feel right, trust your instincts. ⚠

What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call or Message

• Do not engage with the caller or message
• Do not click on links or reply to messages
• Hang up and contact your Credit Union directly using a trusted number
• Never share personal, financial or security information
• Block and delete suspicious messages

Our staff will always support and encourage you to verify any contact you are unsure about.

If You Think You Have Been Scammed

If you believe you may have shared information or responded to a scam:

• Contact your Credit Union immediately
• Report the incident to An Garda Síochána
• Let us know as soon as possible so we can help protect your account and support other members.

You can contact us directly on 094 9022969.

Acting quickly can greatly reduce the potential impact of fraud.