Ireland scams: Clue in some fraud calls with key difference in 087 number

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The ongoing plague of fraudulent callers targeting thousands of Irish phone numbers continues as more and more keep popping up.

Scammers have been calling off standard 083, 085, and 087 mobile numbers, with many older people falling victim to the automated calls.

When people are answering these numbers, an automated message plays, with the organisers pretending to be from the Department of Social Protection among other government agencies – often asking you to pay a fine.

Many are desperately trying to figure out any tell-tale signs associated with these numbers so they can ensure they don’t answer.

One Twitter user, Michelle McMahon, pointed out a discrepancy on the latest 087 number to contact her.

She wrote: “Useful note on those godforsaken scammer calls – they’re missing a digit.

“Might look like a legit Irish number but this is a giveaway. Don’t answer, cancel and block.”



Clue in some Ireland scam calls with key difference in 087 number

However, after followers of hers checked the numbers bombarding their phones, it seems as though some of the fraudulent callers do contain the full 10 digits of an Irish mobile number – but it’s worth looking out for.

Gardai released a statement yesterday updating the public about this criminal activity, and said; “An automated message informs the recipient that their PPS number has been compromised and requests them to Press 1 to speak with an investigator or official. The caller is then asked to provide personal data.”

Gardai around the country are warning locals by giving them examples of experiences people in the community are reporting.

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They remind the public that “No fines are ever paid over the phone. It is a scam. Hang up immediately. If it’s an automated voice asking you to press 1 or any other number, do not do so.

“No Garda personnel, HSE, Social Welfare of Govt agency will ask you for payment of anything over the phone.”

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