File a Garda Fraud Statement

As soon as you suspect fraud, act fast to preserve evidence before anything is deleted or overwritten:

• Screenshot suspicious transactions, emails, or text messages
• Do not delete any emails or messages — even scam ones
• Export bank statements showing the unauthorised transactions
• Save website URLs, phone numbers, and any contact details of the fraudster
• Note the exact dates and times you noticed the fraud

Before visiting the Garda station, compile:

• Bank or credit card statements highlighting the fraudulent transactions
• Any correspondence with the fraudster (emails, texts, letters)
• Evidence of identity theft (accounts opened in your name, credit checks you did not authorise)
• Your own ID (passport or driving licence) — you will need this at the station
• A written timeline of events — this helps you give a clear statement

Go to your nearest Garda station in person. Phone reports are possible for minor matters, but for fraud you should attend in person to make a formal statement. Bring all your documentation.

You can find your nearest station at garda.ie/en/Contact-Us/Station-Directory/. Some larger stations have dedicated fraud or economic crime units.

At the station, you will make a formal written statement. Be clear and specific:

1. Describe exactly what happened and when you became aware of the fraud
2. Provide the amounts involved and the account details affected
3. Name any suspects or businesses involved, if known
4. Explain the impact on you (financial loss, distress, ongoing risk)

The Garda will write the statement and ask you to read and sign it. Read it carefully — make sure all facts are correct before signing.

After making your statement, you will be given a PULSE reference number. This is critical — write it down and keep it safe.

Contact your bank immediately with:

• Your PULSE reference number
• A request to freeze or flag the affected accounts
• A formal dispute of the fraudulent transactions
• A request for new cards or account numbers if compromised

Under the Payment Services Regulations, your bank must refund unauthorised transactions unless they can prove you acted with gross negligence or fraud. The PULSE report strengthens your position significantly.

Depending on the type of fraud, you should also report to:

• FraudSMART (fraudsmart.ie) — the banking industry's fraud awareness initiative
• Central Bank of Ireland — if a regulated financial services provider is involved
• Data Protection Commission — if your personal data was breached (see our DPC guide)
• CCPC — if the fraud involves a business using unfair practices (see our CCPC guide)

After reporting, stay vigilant:

• Check your bank accounts daily for further unauthorised activity
• Request your CCR credit report to check for accounts opened in your name
• Set up transaction alerts on all your accounts
• Change passwords on your email, banking, and any compromised online accounts
• Enable two-factor authentication everywhere possible