The Irish public are being warned about a scam doing the rounds once again with the aim of parting people with their hard-earned cash.
The latest attempt by fraudsters to trick people to share their financial details involves a text message purporting to be from An Post.
The 'customs fee' scam text requests that recipients pay a minimal amount of money in order for their parcel to be delivered.
READ MORE: Gardai warn of fraud ring operating in Ireland using text scam to steal thousands from bank accounts
Gardai are warning that since many people now shop online, the text "is sent in the hope that whoever receives it is awaiting a delivery of some sort".
The trick used by fraudsters is to ensure the fee is so low, such as €1.90, that people will simply just pay up.
However, the sole aim of the scam is to obtain people's debit or credit card details, and the text may actually appear in a genuine thread of messages.
Gardai shared key advice for someone who receives such a message.
This states:
- "Do not respond to unsolicited text messages and do not click on any links contained in them.
- "Do not provide any personal/financial details.
- "Simply delete the message."
They added: "If you have fallen victim to this scam, alert your financial institution without delay and report the matter to gardai.
"Please advise elderly/vulnerable family members and friends in relation to this scam."
An Post has been urging people to be extra vigilant regarding scam attempts which surged since the outset of the pandemic in March 2020.
The postal company says: "We are aware of a number of scam text messages being sent claiming to be from An Post and asking for financial details for information on parcels. We will never ask for financial details via text messages."
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