William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

An issue of growing concern in recent months is the sharp rise in the number and sophistication of scams targeting people across Ireland, from phishing texts to fake texts and online fraud. These scams are causing real distress and financial loss to many, particularly the vulnerable and our older citizens who are often primary targets. We have heard reports of people losing their life savings to increasingly convincing scams. Despite warnings from banks and gardaí, swindlers continue to find new ways to deceive the public. Can the Taoiseach outline what steps the Government is taking to better inform and protect people from these scams? Is there a co-ordinated plan to increase public awareness, strengthen consumer protections or enhance support from those who have already fallen victim to fraud?

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