CENTRAL BANK WARNING:THE CENTRAL Bank has issued a warning to the public about the risks of dealing with unauthorised investment firms.

Published yesterday, the warning urges those contacted by firms offering to buy or sell shares on their behalf to be particularly vigilant.

It says anyone receiving unsolicited contact from firms offering such services should first check that the firm is authorised by the Central Bank.

The warning states that it is a criminal offence for an investment firm to operate in Ireland without such authorisation.

The Central Bank also says that those caught out by unauthorised investment firms cannot avail of the Investor Compensation Scheme.

The Central Bank said the timing of the warning was not linked to an increase in activity by rogue firms.

Members of the public wanting to query authenticity of an investment firm are invited to contact the Central Bank on (01) 224 4000.

A list of firms known to be unauthorised is available on centralbank.ie.