Never pay a deposit for a home you have not seen, and never share bank codes or passwords by phone or text. Scammers target newcomers because they are busy and do not know the system yet. If you are scammed, call your bank at once and report it to the Gardaí.
What you need
- Your bank’s official app and phone number, saved from its real website
- Strong, different passwords for email, bank, MyGovID and Revenue
- Two-step verification turned on where possible
- The address of your local Garda station
- Screenshots and copies of any suspicious messages
Step by step
- Stop and check. If a message is urgent, scary or too good to be true, stop. Do not click links or call numbers in the message.
- Contact the organisation yourself. Type the website address into your browser, or use the official app. For Revenue, go to revenue.ie or myAccount.
- Protect your accounts. Use strong passwords and two-step verification. Never tell anyone a one-time code.
- If you paid a scammer, call your bank immediately. Bank transfers are hard to trace, so act fast. For unauthorised payments, your bank must refund you in most cases.
- Report it to An Garda Síochána. Go to your local Garda station and bring your records.
- Reset passwords and update the security software on your phone and computer.
Rental scams
Fake rental adverts are very common. Warning signs from the CCPC include:
- The landlord cannot show you the property in person.
- Pressure to pay a deposit or rent quickly.
- A request for money before there is a lease.
- Rent that seems unrealistically low, or a listing only on social media.
- The same property advertised on several sites.
View the property yourself before you pay anything. Test the keys. Check the property on the RTB Register. Pay by card or bank transfer, not cash or crypto, and get a written receipt.
Revenue, government and bank scams
| Scam | Warning sign | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Fake Revenue message | Text or email about a refund or bill | Revenue says it will never contact you by email, SMS or phone to tell you about a refund or bill. Delete it. |
| Fake bank call | Caller asks for card number, PIN or code | Hang up. Call your bank on the number from its website. |
| Fake government text | Link to a gov.ie-style site offering money or credit | Do not click. Check on the real gov.ie site. |
| QR code scam (quishing) | QR code stuck on a parking meter asks for card details | Pay in the official app or at the machine. |
| Job scam | Fee for a job or permit, or a request to use your account | Never pay to get a job or move money for others. |
Copycat websites also charge fees for government services that are free or cheaper on the official site. Always check the address ends in .ie or gov.ie, and be careful with ads at the top of search results.
Personal safety
- In an emergency, call 112 or 999 for Gardaí, ambulance or fire.
- Keep your passport and IRP card safe at home. Carry a copy if you can.
- Use licensed taxis and plan your route home at night.
Do it faster with GetKG
- How to create a strong password — protect your bank, email and government logins
- Crypto scams explained — spot fake investment offers
- Crypto phishing — learn how fake links and wallets steal money
- GetKG English — improve your English so scam messages are easier to spot
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Does Revenue send texts about tax refunds?
No. Revenue says it will never contact you by email, SMS or phone call to tell you about a tax refund or bill. Treat these messages as scams.
Can I get my money back after a scam?
Sometimes. Contact your bank at once. In most cases your bank must refund unauthorised payments, and card payments may be recovered through a chargeback. Cash, gift cards and crypto are very hard to recover.
Where do I report a scam?
Report it to your local Garda station. For consumer advice you can contact the CCPC on (01) 402 5555, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.
How do I check if a landlord is real?
View the property in person, meet the landlord or agent, check the RTB Register and never pay before you sign a lease.
This page is general information, not legal, immigration, medical or tax advice. Rules and fees change, so always check the official site before you act.
Next step: if you have not done it yet, get your PPS number, or go back to the GetKG Ireland home page to see all steps. Start here: How to get a PPS number.