A WARNING HAS been issued to consumers after an increase in overcharging scams. 

Bank of Ireland said these scams involve customers being overcharged at card terminals after being told a lower price verbally by the seller.

Bank of Ireland warns that these kinds of scams can happen quickly, especially when the customer is distracted and doesn’t check the amount displayed on the machines. 

They are urging people to always pause and check the amount displayed on card machines before tapping or inserting their cards

They’re advising people to be cautious if they feel rushed to make a payment and to never hand their card to someone else to complete a transaction. 

Bank of Ireland also urged people to activate card transaction alerts and regularly review their bank statements.

Head of fraud at Bank of Ireland Nicola Sadlier said: “Card payments are quick and convenient, but that speed can also be exploited by fraudsters.”

“Fraudsters often rely on distraction, pressure, or a busy environment to push a payment through before the customer has had a chance to notice the amount being charged,” she continued.

“Taking just a moment to look at the card terminal before tapping or entering your PIN can help prevent this type of fraud. If the amount doesn’t look right, stop the transaction and query it immediately.”

Last month, figures from the Central Bank showed that one in three Irish adults have experienced fraud or scams, with nearly two-thirds of victims suffering financial losses.

The Central Bank’s survey of 3,000 adults found that 38% of fraud victims never reported their experience to their financial service provider or any authority, however, 57% of those who did report fraud recovered their money.