The Central Bank of Ireland has launched a new campaign to help consumers avoid scams as it warns that scammers are getting better and more convincing all the time.
People are being urged to stop and think if they receive an email or a message offering an investment or loan, or asking for personal information.
"No legitimate firm will contact you out of the blue and put you under pressure to invest your money," said Central Bank Deputy Governor Derville Rowland.
"Nor will they ask for a fee to process a loan application, or ask you to click a link in a text message and provide them with your financial details," she stated.
"We have seen some very realistic scam investments, using real firms' details and logos, even the names of their staff. These have duped genuine people who were seeking the best place to invest significant amounts of money," Ms Rowland said.
Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau said people should always protect their personal data.
"Take your time, do your research, and don't feel pressured into making a decision," Detective Superintendent Cryan said.
"Seek advice from a reliable source. If something sounds too good to be true, then unfortunately, it probably is," he added.
The Central Bank has created the "SAFE" test, which gives consumers four practical steps to take when considering buying a financial product or dealing with a firm through a website, social media, an unsolicited phone call, email, text or pop up message.
"SAFE" stands for stop, assess, factcheck and expose.
Consumers are asked to check www.centralbank.ie/scams for tips on how to avoid scams.
