Fake banking app scams are designed to catch sellers off guard during in-person collections. They rely on pressure, distraction, and apps that look convincing—but no real payment is ever made.
Here’s how the scam typically works, and how to protect yourself.
How the scam usually unfolds
Step 1: A buyer agrees to meet in person
A non-genuine buyer contacts you about an item or vehicle and agrees to collect it in person.
Everything may seem normal at this stage—they may appear polite, knowledgeable, and keen to proceed.
Because the meeting is face to face, it can feel more trustworthy.
Step 2: Payment is “made” on the spot
At collection, the buyer says they’ll transfer the money immediately using their banking app.
They then show you their phone, where:
A bank transfer screen appears
A confirmation message is displayed
The payment looks complete
The app often looks identical to a real banking app.
But it isn’t.
Step 3: The app is fake
The buyer is using a fake or manipulated banking app designed to:
Imitate real Irish banking apps
Show false confirmations
Create the impression that money has been sent
In reality, no transfer has occurred.
The scam relies on trust, speed, and the assumption that what you’re seeing must be real.
Step 4: Pressure to hand over the item
The buyer may say:
“It can take a few minutes to show up”
“It’s pending, you’ll see it shortly”
“I’ve done this loads of times”
They may try to distract you or rush the handover.
Once the item or vehicle is handed over, they leave—and the money never arrives.
Why this scam works
Fake apps can look very convincing
People don’t expect scams to happen face to face
Sellers may feel awkward delaying or questioning payment
Large or busy collections can be distracting
Scammers rely on politeness and pressure to close the deal quickly.
How to protect yourself
Only trust your own bank account
Never rely on:
Screenshots
On-screen confirmations
Someone else’s banking app
Only proceed once the money is fully visible and cleared in your own account.
Don’t accept “pending” payments
If the funds aren’t there, the payment hasn’t happened.
A genuine buyer will understand you waiting.
Take your time
There’s no need to rush a handover.
If a buyer pressures you to proceed before payment is confirmed, pause the sale.
Be especially careful with vehicles
For cars and high-value items:
Confirm funds before handing over keys
Keep documents secure
Don’t rely on verbal assurances
Trust your instincts
If something feels off—even slightly—it’s okay to stop.
Your safety and security come first.
If you suspect a fake banking app
Do not hand over the item or vehicle.
End the transaction and report the user through the Help Centre so we can investigate.
Selling should feel straightforward and secure—not uncomfortable or rushed.
Taking a few extra minutes to confirm payment can save a lot of trouble later.
Contact Us
If you have any further questions or would like to chat, please reach out to our Customer Support team.