Fraud awareness

Fraud and scam activity continues to increase, with criminals using increasingly convincing text messages, emails and phone calls to trick people into sharing personal or financial information. Kilrush Credit Union will never ask you to provide sensitive information by text, email or unsolicited phone call.

Being aware of common scam tactics is the best way to protect yourself and your account.

Fraudulent Text Messages (SMS Scams)

Text message scams are one of the most common forms of fraud reported by members. These messages are designed to look legitimate and often create a sense of urgency.

Electricity Grant Scam

Members have reported receiving text messages claiming they qualify for a €1,500 electricity grant due to having savings with their credit union.

These messages typically:

• Appear to come from a trusted source
• Include a link asking the recipient to apply for the grant
• Request personal and financial details via an online form

This is a scam.
Any details entered into these forms may be used by fraudsters to access accounts or commit identity fraud.

Kilrush Credit Union does not issue grants by text message and will never ask you to apply for financial supports via an unsolicited link.

“New Payee Added” Scam

Another increasingly common scam involves text messages claiming that:

• A new payee has been added to your account
• Immediate action is required if the change was not authorised

These messages often:

• Are completely unsolicited
• Create urgency or alarm
• Reference partial account details (such as limited IBAN digits)
• Instruct you to contact a phone number immediately

This is a scam.
Fraudsters use urgency to pressure recipients into calling fake numbers or sharing personal information.

Kilrush Credit Union will never ask you to respond to account alerts by text message or request sensitive details in this way.

• Do not click on links in unsolicited texts or emails
• Never share your PIN, passwords or verification codes
• Be cautious of messages that create urgency or fear
• Verify any unexpected contact by contacting Kilrush Credit Union directly using known contact details
• If in doubt, stop and check before taking any action

Kilrush Credit Union will never:

• Ask for your PIN or full login details
• Request sensitive information by text or email
• Ask you to move funds urgently due to a text message
• Ask you to click on links to “secure” your account

If you receive a suspicious message or believe you may have shared information:

• Do not respond to the message
• Do not click on any links
• Contact Kilrush Credit Union immediately using official contact details

Reporting suspicious activity helps protect both you and other members.