Public warned of scams coming from HSE hacking

Last week, HSE has indicated that their health service and IT systems are shut down because of the cyberattack attack. The HSE also issued its own warnings about the cyber attack and is braced for the release of stolen patient data. Messages circulating from Social Media and WhatsApp claim that many people are getting calls from scammers who purport to be local authorities the HSE.

Future Direct is urging people to be alert for calls or texts from fraudsters claiming to be from the HSE. Please be vigilant when receiving phone calls from people claiming to be working in HSE. Remember that they have all your personal data - including name, address, date of birth, PPSN, personal medical history, and even your medical appointments. If they request to issue refunds for overpayment and ask for bank details, please just hang up and notify the Garda immediately if you have been deceived.

CEO Paul Reid said the HSE would not contact people looking for their PPS number proactively, and urged anyone with suspicions about a phone call purporting to be from the HSE to contact gardaí.

Kindly remind the elderly around you as they seem to be more vulnerable to this. Please share this with your friends family so that we can all be vigilant in this crisis.

What to do if you suspect someone is trying to scam you (The Journal. ie)

⚠️ If you are contacted by someone who claims to have your data and asks you for your bank account details or PPS number, do not engage with them and do not give them any personal information.

⚠️ If a caller rings you unprompted and claims to be from an organization you dealt with, like your bank or a hospital, end the call and check the organization’s number online - then call it back to see if the call came from the organization.

⚠️ If you receive an unexpected text or an email with a request for your bank details or PPS number, do not click on any links.

⚠️ And if you do think you’ve given scammers your personal information, call gardaí on the Garda Confidential Line (1800 666 111) or at your local garda station.