Local TD says plan needed to tackle increase in financial fraud and scams

Sinn Féin TD for Longford-Westmeath Sorca Clarke has called for a plan to tackle fraud and scams following a massive increase in the crime.

Sinn Féin are calling for the Government to bring forward a multi-annual plan to tackle these crimes as citizens feel increasingly vulnerable to the criminal actions of fraudsters.

Speaking today, Deputy Clarke said: “Figures released to Sinn Féin's Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty by the Department of Justice show an alarming and massive increase in financial fraud and scams across the State."

“Since 2019, instances of investment fraud have risen by 258 percent. Account Takeover Fraud has increased by a staggering 560 percent. Romance fraud has risen by 83 percent while scams through phishing, smishing and vishing have increased by 417 percent."

“Citizens are being robbed of millions of euros each year by fraudsters. This will include countless people in Westmeath."

"Government inaction is leaving citizens exposed, here in Westmeath and beyond."