Prevention of fraud put in focus at Network Ireland Limerick event

CYBERSECURITY and fraud prevention were the focus at Network Ireland Limerick’s latest event.

The group teamed up with AIB, which hosted the meeting in its branch at O’Connell Street in Limerick city centre.

It highlighted the growing risks of Internet fraud for both businesses and individuals.

The evening featured expert speakers including John Haren, cyber-awareness Lead at AIB, and Audrey Doherty, who shared practical insights on protecting against increasingly sophisticated online threats.

The event was organised in collaboration with AIB branch manager Glenn Graham and his team in the city centre branch.

Denise O’Brien, the deputy president of Network Ireland Limerick, which exists to support women in business and the arts locally, hosted the session.

She said: “This event highlighted the very real and evolving threats facing businesses in Ireland today. The reality of Internet fraud, both nationally and globally, makes cybersecurity a critical priority for every business professional.”

She thanked AIB’s speakers for their guidance.

“The level of sophistication involved in online fraud is alarming, and events like this are essential in helping our members stay informed and protected,” Ms O’Brien added.

Mr Haren outlined the various types of fraud currently affecting customers, including fraudulent text messaging, the impersonation of banks and other companies to get personal date, QR code scams, and more complex threats such as invoice redirection fraud.

These issues, he noted, frequently impact SMEs and business customers.

“The key takeaway is to never bypass your normal banking processes —they are there to protect you. Take your time. A defining feature of online scams is urgency. In business, very few decisions are so urgent that they cannot be checked,” he said.

Also speaking on the evening was local fashion designer Ber McNamara, who showcased elements of her work during a mini fashion presentation and spoke about her business journey.

Based in Pallaskenry, she is preparing to launch her latest collection, The Pure Line, in the coming weeks.

Network Ireland Limerick Businesswoman of the Year Awards will take place on June 12 at the Savoy Hotel featuring a gala dinner and awards ceremony.

With eight categories and over 41 entrants in 2026, winners at local level will go on to represent Limerick at the national finals later in the year.

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