How to spot a scam
Scams can take many forms - fake lotteries, prize draws, pyramid schemes and other "get rich quick" deals. The fraudsters can try to hook you over the phone or on a website, by email or letter, or at your front door.
Here are five main ways to spot a scam:
- They ask you to send money or ring a premium rate number before you receive an offer or prize. Or before you can get the prize they say you have to buy goods or sign up to a service. Remember that Irish premium rate numbers start with a 15
- They sound pleasant but rush you into making a decision. And they ask you not to tell anyone else about this great deal. Ask yourself: why the big rush?
- They ask for your bank details, credit card number or other personal or financial information
- They give a PO box as their only address
- They carry on talking about their offer - even after you've said you're not interested. And they keep making you feel they won't take "No" for an answer
Have your say
Tell us about scams you have come across. Use our contact form, or email us at haveyoursay@consumerconnect.ie, or call our LoCall number at 1890 432 432 or phone (01) 402 5555.
Learn more
Find out more about our scams awareness campaign
Read tips on how to avoid scams
Learn where to go if you have been caught out