Kilkenny garda warn over elaborate romance frauds

Kilkenny gardaí have issued an immediate warning urging people locally to beware of romance fraud.

A number of people have been duped online by fraudsters purporting to be well known politicians and celebrities.

Crime Prevention Officer at Kilkenny Garda Station, Garda Eddie Brennan also stressed that members of the public should not be embarrassed if they are the victim of romance fraud and should immediately report any incidents to Kilkenny gardaí and to their bank.

"These are often AI-generated recommendation purporting to be from well known celebrities and politicians. These people are not going to cold message you, having never spoken to you before. Our advice is to stop, think and talk before you take any action," he said.

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"If you do suspect that you have been conned then contact the gardaí and your bank, don't be embarrassed," added Gda Brennan who is raising awareness locally over romance fraud and investment fraud.

"When it comes to investing money, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. We would always urge people to check the veracity of any offer before giving over details," he added.