The public have been warned about online scams offering free gifts while pretending to be from Dublin Zoo.
This warning was issued by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), who have said that social media posts were appearing with images and videos showing fake Dublin Zoo-branded content.
These posts have included offers of free gifts or back-to-school packs with consumers before asking for a €2-3 postage to be paid.
The CCPC were soon informed of the these fraudulent posts by Dublin Zoon, with their Director for Communications, Aoibhín de Búrca saying that scammers "are getting smarter every day".
"They are taking advantage of busy consumers and using established businesses with recognisable branding to create fake social media ads and clone websites", she said. "We know it is getting harder to spot scams online, which is why pausing before you hit pay is more important than ever".
"Do not click on social media ads directly or enter payment details without doing a thorough search to make sure you're on an authentic website," said Ms de Búrca.
She added: "Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is".
The public have also been advised by the CCPC to contact their bank immediately if they think they have been scammed.
They said: "You may be able to initiate a chargeback and get your money back, and you may need to freeze your card to prevent further money being taken. An Garda Síochána are responsible for pursuing scam operators, so contact your local garda station and report it". (All quotes according to RTÉ).
Back in July, Dublin Zoo had unveiled two new species in the form of giant anteaters Junio and Milo, as well as a six banded armadillo, Ozzy. You can check out more on this story from Nova here.
