Gardaí warn public over text hoax called 'grandparent scam'

The fraud involves a random text message purporting to be from a family member who has lost their phone and looking for money

Gardaí advise that anyone who gets the scam texts should verify the person’s identity by asking questions that a stranger could not possibly answer, call a family member to verify if someone is operating under a different number even if being told to keep the story a secret.

Gardaí are warning the public to be aware of a new text scam known as the “grandparent scam”.

The scam involves members of the public being targeted when they receive a random text message purporting to be from a family member. The text details how they require financial help or are in some sort of trouble that needs to be kept secret.