Gardaí are warning the public to beware of fraudsters exploiting the spread of COVID-19.

In an advisory this evening, the force said the main types of scams include Phishing, Social Engineering Scams and Fraudulent Trading.

They said the scams can be carried out online or in person.

Phishing

Phishing is when a company or person receives unsolicited contact from someone claiming to be a legitimate organisation.

The communications contain an attachment claiming to contain information on the virus.

It can also ask people to enter email login details to access the information.

Gardaí said both ways can lead to malware infecting your device.

Social Engineering Scams

Gardaí said criminals can try and exploit the charitable nature of people on social media or in person asking for donations to fake charities.

They said the criminal could pose as a collector for a real charity or set up an online funding campaign.

The public is advised to be wary of unsolicited requests and only donate to “legitimate, recognised charities.”

Anyone collecting for a charity should have an ID and collection permit. If they don’t, people are urged not to donate and to inform Gardaí.

Fraudulent trading

This is when fraudsters claim to be selling in-demand medical supplies or household goods that may be in short supply.

Gardaí said the fraudsters try and sell the items online and do not deliver them after receiving payment.

The public is urged to only but from legitimate vendors and be wary of rushed offers.