The Central Bank has issued a warning about a rogue Japanese investment firm. It says Motoyagi and Associates is operating in Ireland illegally.

The bank says the firm is not authorised as an investment firm, investment business firm or to provide investment advice.

A list of unauthorised firms and persons published to date is available on the Central Bank website.

The bank adds that consumers who deal with a firm or person who is not authorised are not eligible for compensation from the Investor Compensation Scheme.

Anyone who wants to contact the Central Bank with information can call (01)-224-4000.

This line is also available to the public to check if a firm or person is authorised.

Since obtaining these powers in August 1998, the names of 265 unauthorised firms and persons have been published by the Central Bank.