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Revenue has issued a warning over email scam

These scams seem to be a dime a dozen at the moment, but Revenue has issued a fresh warning to co...
Newstalk
Newstalk

11.52 13 Dec 2016


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Revenue has issued a warning o...

Revenue has issued a warning over email scam

Newstalk
Newstalk

11.52 13 Dec 2016


Share this article


These scams seem to be a dime a dozen at the moment, but Revenue has issued a fresh warning to consumers following the circulation of phishing emails, using Revenue as a cover. 

The body issued the following statement yesterday. 

"This week the Revenue Commissioners have become aware of fraudulent emails and SMS (text messages) purporting to come from Revenue seeking personal information from taxpayers in connection with a tax refund or seeking credit/debit card details.  These emails and text messages did not issue from Revenue."

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The statement continues to say Revenue never send emails or text messages requiring customers to send personal information via email, text or pop-up windows. 

"Anyone who receives an email or text message purporting to be from Revenue and suspects it to be fraudulent or a scam should simply delete it. Anyone who is actually awaiting a tax refund should contact their local Revenue Office to check its status. Anyone who provided personal information in response to these fraudulent emails or text messages should contact their bank or credit card company immediately."

Stay Safe:

These systems are becoming more sophisticated but there's a few simple things you can do to ensure you and your data stay safe.

  • Look for urgency: If the email states urgent action is required to verify your details or process a refund, do not act. Chances are it’s a phishing expedition.
  • Company info: Many of these phishing attempts involve criminals posing as a well known company or bank. Always check the sender’s email address. Look at any logos within the email and hover your mouse over any link within the email (don’t click on it); this may show a falsified website. If it doesn’t look legit, bin it.
  • Spelling: Watch out for appalling typos or sentences that just don’t make sense. We often scan emails rather than reading them fully so if you are suspicious, take a moment or two to read the entire email. If you spot something that dodgey, bin it.
  • Verify: If you are still unsure about the legitimacy of an email, call the provider and explain your situation. This may take a few minutes out of your day, but it’s better than losing money to a phishing scam.

 

 


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