📞 Top 5 Scam Call Tactics Targeting Irish Bank Customers in 2025

Scam calls are evolving—and in 2025, Irish bank customers are seeing increasingly sophisticated tactics designed to steal their money, data, or access to accounts. With scammers using spoofed numbers, real-time voice AI, and messages that mimic genuine banking communications, it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant. Below, we uncover the top 5 scam call tactics targeting customers of banks like AIB, Bank of Ireland, Permanent TSB, and more—so you can spot the warning signs and stay protected.

1. 🚨 Spoofed Bank Numbers with Urgent Fraud Warnings

Tactic: Caller claims suspicious activity and urges action.
Red Flags: OTP requests, instructions to transfer money to a “safe” account.
Reality: Banks never ask for OTPs or transfers over the phone.

2. 📱 Fake Text Followed by a Scam Call

Tactic: Smishing text appears in the same thread as your real bank messages.
Stat: Smishing-vishing combo attacks are up 112% year-over-year.
Advice: Call your bank using the official number on your card.

3. 💰 Investment or Loan Scam Calls

Tactic: Offers of pre-approved loans or investments requiring your data.
Psychology: Exploits financial stress or opportunity.
Tip: Real banks do not ask for personal info via unsolicited calls.

4. 🛠️ “Bank IT Support” Remote Access Scam

Tactic: Caller claims malware on your phone and guides you to install remote access tools.
Danger: These apps allow scammers full access to your device.
Reminder: Banks never ask you to install AnyDesk or TeamViewer.

5. 💳 “You’ve Won a Refund” Reimbursement Scams

Tactic: Callers claim to refund overcharged fees and ask for card or IBAN details.
Target: Often elderly or previously scammed users.
Fact: Banks can issue refunds without asking for full card details over the phone.

If you suspect a scam call, hang up immediately and contact your bank using the official phone number. Never share sensitive info with unknown callers.

🔗 Resources for Scam Protection

🛡️ ScamAlert.ie – Helping Ireland stay scam-free. Share this post to protect your community.