MONAGHAN SAFETY SEMINAR DELIVERS STARK SCAMS WARNING

A Safety and Security Seminar in Monaghan Town this week delivered a stark warning to local communities about the increased risk of text message and investment scams. Over 55s were now a key target for increasingly elaborate scams seeking investments of upward of €20,000, delegates were informed at the Hillgrove Hotel event on Tuesday. The seminar for older people was hosted by.

Age Friendly Ireland (AFI), Banking and Payments Federation Ireland and the Garda Older Persons Association. The event followed widespread warnings about increases in smishing, phone scams and investment scams targeting consumers in 2023. Matt Sheridan, Fraud Strategy Manager with the PTSB, said: “We have noticed a recent upsurge in fraud activity, in particular investment scams and smishing, which are text messages seeking your personal and financial information. “Indications suggest that investment scams are particularly targeted at those in the over 55 age bracket with a minimum investment of €20,000 and in many cases upwards of that. While the amounts may seem high, it’s important to point out that the victims…