THE CENTRAL BANK has warned the public to be wary of six financial investment firms who have offered services in Ireland without the appropriate authorisation.

The six firms are among a growing list of over 180 firms which have been listed by the Central Bank as having offered services here without prior clearance.

The firms listed are as follows:

The latter firm claims to be based in Ireland and also in the United Arab Emirates.

The bank said none of the companies were authorised as investment firms in Ireland and that any consumer who is offered their services should decline them.

“It is a criminal offence for an investment firm to operate in Ireland unless it has an authorisation from the Central Bank of Ireland,” the bank warned this morning.

“Consumers should be aware that, if they deal with an investment firm which is not authorised, they are not eligible for compensation from the Investor Compensation Scheme.”

Any consumer who may be affected by operations involving any unauthorised firm can contact the bank at (01) 2244000 for information and assistance.