Galway residents are being warned to hang up the phone immediately if they receive a specific call claiming to be from “Eir” technical support today.
13:10, 02 Aug 2026Updated 13:13, 02 Aug 2026
People have been targeted in recent days by these scammers(Image: Kate Wieser)
Galway residents are being urged to remain on high alert following reports of a sophisticated phone scam operating across the country that threatens to give criminals total access to local bank accounts.
The urgent warning comes after a local resident reported receiving a highly convincing cold call from a man claiming to represent broadband provider Eir.
The scammer tried to convince the victim that that there was a fault with their internet connection that needed to be resolved immediately.
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In order for the alleged fault to be fixed, the scammer instructed the resident to download a specific mobile application onto their smartphone.
However, doing that allows these scammers almost total control of your mobile phone allowing scammers to get access to private photos, texts, and personal data, intercept two-factor authentication security codes and infiltrate online banking apps and drain funds within minutes.
Some helpful tips that people should so as not to fall victim to these scammers include:
Eir and other telecom companies will NEVER cold-call you to demand you download remote-access apps.Never grant remote access to your phone or computer to an unsolicited caller, no matter how convincing or urgent they sound.If in doubt, hang up immediately. Wait a few minutes for the line to clear, and dial your provider’s official customer care number listed on your monthly bill.Inform family and neighbours. A quick five-minute chat with an elderly relative today could save them from losing their life savings.
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