Public Warning Issued Over ‘Family Member’ Text Scam.

Public Warning Issued Over the old ‘Family Member’ Text Messaging Scam occurring in Co. Tipperary today.

Gardaí are warning members of the public to be on alert following an increase in fraudulent text messages, “See picture here on right”, same claiming to be from a son or daughter in need of assistance.

In these scams, recipients are urged to save a number and begin messaging, believing they are communicating with their child. The exchanges are designed to extract personal information and build trust. Before long, the victim is asked to send a small sum of money, typically around €20, with further attempts made to obtain additional funds and sensitive details.

Gardaí are advising the public that, if they receive any such message, they should block the number, report it, and not respond under any circumstances.