Scams to watch out for - Link Credit Union

As the most trusted brand for over a decade, your local credit union is seeking to help you keep your money in your pocket this Christmas and safe from scammers.

As the festive season approaches, excitement fills the air, but so do the financial risks. Scammers are getting smarter, and scams are becoming increasingly more sophisticated and harder to detect. Link Credit Union wants to help you protect your money and personal information.

In line with its commitment to safeguarding members and the broader community, Link Credit Union has identified five scams. The branch also offers practical guidance to assist you in protecting your personal information and accounts.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

1. Fake websites and online ads

Fraudsters often create convincing fake websites and advertisements to steal your card details. Even a padlock symbol isn’t a guarantee of safety, fraudsters can fake those too. Watch out for grammar or spelling mistakes and odd website addresses. Before you buy, search online for reviews. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!

* Tip: Only shop on trusted sites. Trust your gut, if something feels off, walk away. Or better still, shop in your local stores on the high street and keep the money local.

2. Spoofed messages & calls

Scammers send texts or emails pretending to come from your credit union, bank, or other service providers. They use “spoofing” to make their messages look real, even appearing in genuine message threads.

* Tip: Your credit union will never ask for PINs or passwords by text or email. If you are unsure, call us directly using our official number.

3. The ‘Dear Mum/Dad’ Scam

Fraudsters pose as your child, texting from a “new number”, claiming that their phone is lost or damaged and asking for urgent help, usually money. It is designed to panic you into acting fast.

* Tip: Never send money without calling your family member on their usual number to check the story.

4. Smishing, dangerous links in messages

“Smishing” is when scammers send fake texts, emails, or WhatsApp messages with links that steal your info. These often claim to be from trusted companies like An Post, DHL, or your credit union.

* Tip: Do not click on links in unexpected messages. If in doubt, contact the company directly using details from their official site.

5. Money Muling

Criminals offer “easy money” for using your bank account to move cash. It might sound harmless, but it is actually money laundering, which is a serious crime.

* Tip: Never open an account for someone else or let anyone use yours. Ignore offers for quick cash.

6. What To Do If You Suspect Fraud

Stay alert and informed. Knowledge is your best defence. By recognising the warning signs and implementing these safety measures, you can protect yourself and your finances. Remember, staying smart means staying aware of the tactics of scammers and fraudsters. If you suspect fraud or notice unusual activity on your account, contact your credit union or Card Services immediately and report it to your local garda station. The faster you act, the better you can protect your accounts.

Best customer experience

Credit unions have topped the charts for best customer experience for nearly a decade. This recognition comes from the Ireland Reputation Index and the CXi awards, reflecting the trust, fairness, and community spirit that credit unions bring to Irish life.

The ethos of the credit union movement is built on people helping people. Credit unions have been the corner stone of communities and a trusted voice on financial wellbeing.

Link Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.