Donegal TD Calls for Policy Interventions to Protect Consumers Against Scams and Fraud

Donegal TD Joe McHugh has issued a stark warning to the public about the tactics used by fraudsters to scam people out of their hard-earned money. McHugh is particularly concerned about the increasing prevalence of a “cocktail of tactics” being used by scammers to catch people off guard and extract personal information or payment details. In this article, we’ll explore the specific tactics that McHugh is warning about and provide tips for staying safe and protected from fraudulent activity.


Pearse Doherty, a Donegal TD and Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Finance, is pushing for policy interventions to safeguard consumers from increasing scams and fraud. Bank of Ireland issued a warning about fraudulent text messages requesting customers to settle outstanding toll charges or update their account information. Doherty said fraudsters are depriving citizens of millions of euro annually, using tactics such as phishing, vishing, and smishing. Doherty called for mobile providers, social media companies, and online platforms to claim responsibility for the fraudulent content promoted through their sites. Furthermore, Doherty advocated for compensation from mobile providers and payment service providers to the victims of fraud, and the establishment of a Confirmation of Payee system to verify the recipient. These measures can protect customers from scams and fraud.


In conclusion, being vigilant and cautious when it comes to financial transactions and personal information is more important than ever before. Fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics, and it’s up to us as consumers to stay informed and take the necessary precautions. Donegal TD Joe McHugh’s warning serves as a timely reminder that we must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting ourselves against fraud. By staying informed, staying cautious, and staying on top of our financial records, we can help to defend ourselves against this ever-present threat.