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Beware of paid survey scams that put your bank account at risk

FraudSMART is warning consumers to watch out for fake online survey or app-testing offers that promise quick cash. These scams may be used to trick you into giving criminals access to your banking app, security codes or personal information.

How the scam work?

These scams may target students looking for summer work or anyone hoping to earn extra money for a holiday.

While browsing online or doing an AI search for ‘quick ways to earn money’, an advert may pop up offering ‘easy cash’ for completing a short survey or testing a banking app.

These offers can look genuine and may use the name of your bank or financial service provider on the advert.

If you click on the advert, the fraudster may then ask you to:

  • Move the conversation to a chatbot or messaging app.
  • Follow step-by-step instructions.
  • Download software or change settings on your phone or laptop to let someone control or view your device.
  • Log in to your banking app or online banking.
  • Share your screen so they can see what you are doing.
  • Share one-time passcodes, PINs, passwords or other security details.

Remember: Your bank will never ask for your PIN, one-time passcodes, full online banking details or remote access to your device. If you are asked for any of these, stop immediately and contact your bank.

 

How to protect yourself

  • Never share your banking password, PIN or one-time passcodes with anyone.
  • Never share your screen with someone you do not know, especially while using your banking app.
  • Only log into your bank account when you have chosen to do so yourself.
  • Be cautious of online offers promising quick or easy money.

What to do if you are targeted

  • Stop immediately. End the chat, call or interaction.
  • Do not download anything or follow any further instructions
  • Do not share banking details, passwords, PINs, one-time passcodes or screen access
  • Contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of your debit or credit card or contact details of your bank’s official website.
  • Report the incident to An Garda Síochána.

Case Study: The €40 customer banking app test

Jack* was saving for a summer holiday and had searched online using an AI tool for “ways to earn quick cash”. He saw an advert offering €40 for completing a short customer banking app test. After signing up, he was asked to continue through a chatbot. The chatbot described the task as a “bank app login test” and told him to open his banking app and share his screen. Jack realised this could expose his banking details and security codes, so he ended the session and contacted his bank using the number on the back of his card.

*The name and some details have been changed to protect the person’s identity.

Help keep your family and friends safe

Share this alert with family and friends to help them stay safe. Encourage them to sign up for FraudSMART fraud alerts. We issue alerts when a new scam is in circulation.