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Gardaí urges the public to be careful when shopping online after two recent incidents of fraud of almost 30,000 euros.
Gardaí in Cork City is investigating two September 2020 incidents in which injured parties attempted to purchase motor homes from a website that is allegedly based in the UK.
In both cases, the communication was made through the company’s website which seemed legitimate.
Both injured parties agreed to a deal with the company and sent almost € 15,000 each by bank transfer.
Speaking at the Anglesea Street Garda Station, Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Brian McSweeney said: “When buying something online, always use reliable sources. Use sites that you are familiar with or that have been previously used by relatives or friends.
“Look closely at the website, if the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
“It is quite possible that more and more people are investing in motorhomes and caravans due to Covid-19, so be sure to do your homework before buying.
“If you have been the victim of some kind of online fraud like this, pick up the phone and contact your local Garda station.”
No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing.
No further details are available on these two incidents.
Gardaí has issued the ‘golden rules’ for buying online:
- Buy from trusted sources
- Understand the risk and think twice before buying
- Check the seller’s reviews and ratings.
- Make sure data transfer is secure
- Save all documents related to online shopping
- If you don’t make a purchase, don’t leave your identity or card details behind
- Check website payment security
- Never send card details via email, text message, or other messaging methods
- Don’t send money to someone you don’t know, check first
- Use credit cards when shopping online
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