Bogus collector scam highlighted

A NATIONAL charity has issued a warning to those seeking to make donations after a bogus collector was reported in County Wicklow.

The ISPCA warned that a man in his 30s was reported to be collecting funds on behalf of the charity in the Arklow area in recent days. It is understood that the man alleged that a new ISPCA centre was being opened in the Coyne’s Cross area on the N11.

A spokesperson for the charity confirmed that no such centre was in the pipeline and that the man did not represent the ISPCA.

‘He had no ID or permit and the ISPCA is asking the public to be vigilant and to contact the gardaí or the ISPCA fundraising team on 043 33 25035 (3) or email fundraising@ispca.ie,’ the spokesperson said. Anyone wishing to support the ISPCA can make a secure donation online by visiting the website on www.ispca.ie

Gardaí in Wicklow reminded the public that they should never hand over money to collectors without requesting ID and a permit and asked that they report suspicious callers if they have concerns about their authenticity.