The comedian opened up on his social media and technology use as he recalled how he found out his image was being used to attempt to scam money out of people via WhatsApp
Comedian Jarlath Regan
Jarlath Regan has revealed he discovered he was being impersonated in a scam to swindle money out of people while pretending to be him.
The comedian opened up on his social media and screen time habits to RSVP Magazine as he admitted he does spend a lot of time online for work.
When asked if he was worried about his safety on the internet, he told us: “Well, last night, I learned that a fake account was contacting people as me and asking them to WhatsApp them, then asking them for money as me!”
Despite the downsides, Jarlath said that social media has huge benefits, particular for comedians.
“Social media changed the lives of every comedian on the planet,” he said. “We all have our own personal TV channel in our pockets.”
It does mean his screentime racks up as he is on his phone a lot for work.
“I’m always taking notes, filming, recording and replying to stuff,” he said. “It’s hard to stop working when your office is in your hands.”
When asked if he was addicted to his phone, he joked: “Nah. I can quit whenever I like. Seriously guys, I’m not addicted. I’m really not!”
He continued: “[I switch off from technology] when my wife confiscates my phone or the battery runs out. Those are the times when I really find that I switch off technology. I run a lot, about 60km ideally each week. I leave the phone behind and just listen for those hours.”
Jarlath has a teenage son called Mikey, who he said has more awareness than he does over how addictive screens can be.
“My son has way more self-control than me and I think our kids have a better understanding of how addictive these devices are,” said Jarlath. “I still think they need our help guiding them and helping them. I do a parenting podcast with my wife – Honey! You’re Ruining Our Kid! – we help parents who are struggling; it’s a zero-judgement guarantee.”
Jarlath Regan is currently on tour – for tickets to GAS MAN, visit Ticketmaster or Jigser.com. Jarlath is also taking part in the Incognito 2026 secret art sale on Wednesday, May 20. In aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, each original postcard artwork costs €75. Visit incognito.ie.
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