Gardai are advising of a scam where members of the public are receiving calls from texts from people claiming to be from the Department of Social Protection, and advising that their PPS number has been compromised.

The person receiving the call is then asked to verify their name, PPS number and in some cases their bank account details.

This personal data is then being used for fraudulent purposes.

 Gardai are advising the public not to engage with such callers, or return the call, and never to share personal information with such callers.

Anyone who has received such a call or text should contact their bank and the Department's helpline number at 1890 800 024, as well as reporting the matter to their local Garda station.