Be very Careful, doing Transactions, Online.

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Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan said Gardai are working closely with their international partners around the world
Detective Superintendent Michael Cryan said Gardai are working closely with their international partners around the world
Over 150,000 people here responded to texts, with gangs obtaining their personal info
Over 150,000 people here responded to texts, with gangs obtaining their personal info

The figures were identified by investigators from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau as part of Operation Stargrew.

The operation, coinciding with raids in 19 countries around the world, targeted crime gangs which use text messages to gain access to victims’ bank accounts.

On this occasion, scammers were using the platform LabHost to send out their dodgy text messages.

One investigator said: “This platform served no legitimate purpose and was simply a service for criminals.”

The platform, now been shut down, allowed them to send victims texts with a link to one of more than 170 fake websites — posing as legitimate banks.

Over 150,000 people here responded to texts, with gangs obtaining their personal info.

During the operation, officers from the GNECB searched 12 locations in Dublin, Kildare and Waterford this week.

Investigators seized €42,000 in cash, €10,000 in crypto currency, 82 smartphones, and dozens of other devices.

One suspect was arrested in Ireland as he tried to wipe information from his phone.

Det Supt Michael Cryan, from the GNECB, said: “We are working closely with our international partners around the world in a number of ongoing investigations.”

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