Key takeaway
Recognise the most common scams targeting newcomers in Ireland, from fake rental listings to fraudulent Revenue calls, and how to protect yourself.
Newcomers to Ireland are disproportionately targeted by scammers who exploit unfamiliarity with local systems, urgency around housing, and pressure tactics. Here are the scams to watch for and how to protect yourself.
Fake Rental Listing Scams
The most damaging scam for newcomers: fraudsters post attractive apartment listings (often copying real photos) at below-market rent, then ask for a deposit or first month's rent via bank transfer before you've viewed the property — sometimes claiming they're 'abroad' and can't show it in person. Never send money before viewing a property in person or via a live video call, and be suspicious of any landlord who refuses this. Verify the property is genuinely listed by searching the address separately.
Fake Government or Revenue Calls
Scammers impersonate Revenue, the Department of Social Protection, An Garda Síochána, or An Post/Eircode, claiming you owe money, have a parcel customs charge, or face arrest unless you pay immediately — often demanding payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer. Genuine Irish government bodies never demand immediate payment this way or threaten arrest over the phone. If in doubt, hang up and call the organisation back using the official number from their website (not a number given in the call or text).
Job Offer and 'Training Fee' Scams
Some newcomers, especially those searching for work before they've built local networks, are targeted with fake job offers requiring an upfront 'training', 'visa sponsorship', or 'equipment' fee. Legitimate Irish employers do not ask new hires to pay money as a condition of employment — treat any such request as a red flag.
Romance and Relationship Scams
Newcomers who are building new social circles are sometimes targeted on dating apps or social media by scammers who build a relationship over weeks or months before requesting money for an 'emergency'. Never send money to someone you haven't met in person, regardless of how long you've been messaging.
SIM Card and Bank Account 'Renting' Scams
Be wary of anyone offering to pay you for use of your bank account or phone SIM — this is frequently linked to money laundering, and you can be held legally responsible even if you didn't know the money's origin.
How to Verify and Report Scams
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) publishes current scam alerts specific to Ireland. Report scam calls/texts to your bank immediately if you've shared financial details, and to An Garda Síochána via your local station or 1800 666 111. Banks in Ireland (AIB, Bank of Ireland, Revolut, etc.) never ask you to move money to a 'safe account' — this is always a scam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a rental listing in Ireland is a scam?
Red flags include below-market rent, a landlord who is 'abroad' and refuses in-person or video viewings, and requests for deposit payment via wire transfer before viewing. Always view in person or via live video call before paying anything.
Would Revenue really call and demand immediate payment in Ireland?
No. Revenue does not demand immediate payment by phone, gift card, or cryptocurrency, nor threaten arrest over the phone. Hang up and contact Revenue directly via revenue.ie if you receive such a call.
Is it safe to let someone use my bank account for a fee in Ireland?
No — this is commonly linked to money laundering (sometimes called 'money muling'), and you can face criminal liability even without knowing the money's source.
Where can I report a scam in Ireland?
Report to your bank immediately if financial details were shared, to An Garda Síochána (local station or 1800 666 111), and check current alerts at ccpc.ie.
Should I pay an upfront fee for a job offer in Ireland?
No, legitimate employers in Ireland never require payment from candidates for training, equipment, or visa sponsorship as a condition of hiring — treat such requests as a scam.
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.