CeADAR and Google Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement to Help Irish Businesses Unlock AI’s Potential

CeADAR and Google Ireland have announced a new strategic partnership to help Irish businesses capitalise on the economic potential of AI. CeADAR, Ireland’s European Digital Hub for AI, and Google signed the agreement at a meeting with the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD at Government Buildings today.

Recent research from Google and Implement Consulting Group shows that widespread adoption of AI has the potential to boost Ireland’s GDP by €40-45 billion. The new partnership between CeADAR and Google aims to support Irish businesses to adopt AI to boost competitiveness and productivity.

CeADAR and Google will focus on building an AI-ready workforce and driving the adoption of AI-powered solutions  through a three-pillar approach:

 

  • Addressing the AI skills gap – this includes tailored learning paths that provide on-demand training for varying proficiency levels, enhancing technical skills in cloud and product mastery while transforming leaders into AI-driven strategists.

 

  • Scaling AI capabilities –  empower Irish businesses to rapidly and responsibly test and implement AI solutions by leveraging Google’s expertise and resources. CeADAR will provide access to Google Cloud resources, including €3M in Google Cloud credits  and advanced AI tools like Vertex AI and Gemini 2.0.

 

  • Investing in the future – preparing Ireland for the next phase of AI through training and mentorship initiatives, for CeADAR staff and interns, building key cloud related skills.

 

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD:

“This partnership between CeADAR and Google is the type of public and private sector collaboration that is needed to ensure we are equipping Irish businesses to benefit from the economic opportunities AI presents. AI has the potential to have a transformative, positive impact on Ireland’s competitiveness and the government is committed to creating an ecosystem where businesses can fully utilise the power of AI to innovate, expand, and compete on a global scale.”

Lorraine Twohill, Chief Marketing Officer at Google said:

“AI presents a tremendous opportunity for Ireland, with the potential to significantly boost the economy. Ireland has built a strong foundation for a safe and reliable AI environment, supported by the Government’s clear ambition to capitalise on this transformative technology. This partnership with CeADAR is designed to help businesses navigate the challenges and opportunities AI brings—transforming how jobs are performed, creating new AI-focused roles, and enabling businesses to thrive in an AI-powered economy. By combining Google’s expertise with CeADAR’s capabilities, we are confident that we can unlock AI’s full economic potential and drive sustainable growth across Irish businesses.”

Dr. John Lonsdale, CEO, CeADAR:

“Unlocking AI’s economic potential won’t happen automatically and requires a proactive approach to workforce adaptation. We have been working with Irish businesses in recent years to help them leverage AI and machine learning but with the dynamic evolution of the technology more can be done to upskill Irish businesses, grow and nurture AI talent and facilitate faster adoption of AI. Ireland has a unique opportunity to harness the wider expertise that exists in our bustling tech sector – bringing our expertise together with Google is one key that can begin to unlock the economic opportunity AI will bring.”

Professor Kate Robson Brown, UCD Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Impact said,

“Our researchers and innovators at University College Dublin (UCD) draw on the breadth and depth of their expertise to deliver knowledge and solutions that matter. They are leading the way in fields, such as AI, that are transforming the world around us. Advancing research and innovation is one of UCD’s central pillars guiding the University to break boundaries and to deliver lasting and meaningful impact.

To do so we draw on our strengths and our partnerships, such as this new partnership with Google, to create knowledge and cultivate talent in the areas where that impact can be greatest.  The new partnership announced today will bring together the diverse expertise, strengths and resources of CeADAR and Google to build an AI-ready workforce and drive the adoption of AI-powered solutions boosting the competitiveness and productivity of Irish businesses.”

SteelSeries launches QcK Performance series mousepads

SteelSeries, the original esports brand that fuses gaming and culture, today unveiled the latest evolution of its critically acclaimed QcK mousepad line, the QcK Performance Series. The new series is the first set of mousepads to specifically cater to diverse gamer play styles with three distinct mouse pad surfaces: Speed, Control, and Balance, available in Large and Extra-Large sizes. 

From actuation points in keyboards to mouse side buttons to personalized audio profiles in headsets, players want and need precision, personalization, and customization in their gaming gear. But the lonely mousepad has all but been forgotten or neglected when it comes to pure performance and playstyle for over 20 years. Essentially, there has been a barrier that SteelSeries is set to remove… Enter the QcK Performance Series mousepads. 

For over 20 years, SteelSeries has been the worldwide leader in mousepads for esports pros and gamers – from the ICEMAT in 2001 to the OG QcK in 2004. Since its introduction in 2004, the award-winning QcK line of mousepads has been celebrated globally, becoming a staple for gamers and professional esports players. In fact, Pros have won more prize money with SteelSeries than with any other brand.

Building on the legacy of one of the world’s most popular mouse pads, the QcK Performance Series joins the family of renowned mouse pads including the QcK, QcK Heavy, and QcK Prism. The innovative new Performance Series has been professionally engineered with different play styles in mind, tailored not only for longevity but to enhance player performance in-game. From the ultra-smooth glide of the ‘Speed’ pad for lightning-fast moves to the expertly tuned friction of the ‘Control’ pad for pinpoint accuracy, and the perfect blend of speed and stopping power in the ‘Balance’ pad, the QcK Performance Series offers a mousepad for every gamer.

The QcK Performance Series is the culmination of years of research and collaboration with professional gamers, engineers, and designers. They feature a 3.5mm base with neoprene foam providing unbeatable stability with a non-slip grip and the perfect balance of comfort and stability, while the low-profile stitched edges ensure durability for those long gaming sessions for years to come.

In competitive gaming, victory hinges on speed and precision, and a mousepad plays a crucial role in achieving this. While gamers often customize their mouse and headset audio profiles to suit their playstyle, the importance of the right surface is at times overlooked. The QcK Performance Series addresses this by offering a selection of surfaces tailored to complement the unique gaming style of players.

The QcK Performance | Speed

  • Crafted for gamers who thrive on fast-paced action with an unparalleled, frictionless glide, letting gamers focus purely on fast response reactions. 
  • The ultra-smooth surface ensures rapid, effortless movement, delivering the split-second responsiveness essential in high-speed gameplay.
  • Features ultra-low dynamic friction with an interwoven fabric design for smooth, consistent glide in every direction.

The QcK Performance | Balance 

  • The perfect blend of Speed and Control, combining the swift glide of a speed pad, paired with the precision stopping power of a control pad. 
  • The soft, finely woven texture offers a familiar feel, ideal for those seeking the best of both worlds.
  • High stitch count and a tight weave provide a familiar QcK feel that fans are accustomed to, blending swift glide and stopping power.

The QcK Performance | Control

  • Tailored for gamers who prioritize precision, offering pinpoint accuracy and exceptional stopping power. 
  • The micro-textured surface is expertly engineered with just the right amount of drag, allowing to lock onto a target with razor-sharp aim and unwavering control​. 
  • High-density stitch pattern adds just the right amount of drag for granular movements, ideal for deliberate movement patterns above all else.
  • This mousepad has been crafted for a unique tribe of hardcore gamers who prioritize control over comfort. 

Available at SteelSeries.com and retailers around the world, the QcK Performance Series are available for the following MSRPs:

 

  • QcK Performance Series (L) – US $39.99 | EMEA €44.99| UK £39.99 | APAC $44.99
  • QcK Performance Series (XL) – US $49.99 | EMEA €54.99 | UK £44.99 | APAC $54.99

 

QcK Performance Series fun fact: Three members of the FaZe Rainbow Six team used the new QcKPs to take home the Championship and $1M in prize money at the Rainbow Six Invitational 2025 on February 16, 2025.

  • Jaime ‘Cyber’ Ramos (Entry Fragger, 26, Brazil) | Six Invitational 2025 Champion| QcK Performance Balance Mousepad
      • Cyber is the first one in, clearing angles and landing headshots. He chose the QcK Performance ‘Balance’ surface for the perfect blend of speed and stopping power—giving him total confidence in every flick and entry duel.
      • As the anchor of the squad, soulz1 needs pinpoint precision and rock-solid consistency. The QcK Performance ‘Control’ surface gave him the stability to lock down sites, hold angles, and clutch when it mattered most.
    • Handyy might be the newest member of FaZe Clan, but his fast reflexes and fearless playstyle made him a key part of the win. The QcK Performance ‘Balance’ surface let him react instantly without over- or under-shooting his shots.

 

SteelSeries QcK Performance Mousepads:  This is precision made personal. 

Alpha Data Releases ADM-VB630: A Space Development Platform for AMD Versal AI Edge XQR Devices

Alpha Data continues to lead the way in space-capable reconfigurable computing technology with the release of its latest innovation: the ADM-VB630, a radiation-tolerant reference design for the AMD Versal™ AI Edge XQRVE2302 adaptive SoC engineered for space-grade design, development and deployment. Optimized for satellite applications within a 4-25W power budget, the ADM-VB630 is designed to power the rapidly expanding markets of sensor processing and AI applications in space. 

The ADM-VB630 enables fast, cost-effective development and rapid prototyping, making it a game-changer for space applications. It is ideal for advanced onboard sensor processing, supporting the growing demand for data analysis in expanding satellite constellations. It also brings AI and machine learning capabilities to space, unlocking new possibilities for in-orbit intelligence. The ADM-VB630 facilitates applications such as on-board anomaly detection and sensor data pre-processing, benefiting industries such as Earth observation, agriculture, forestry, and leak detection, or could enhance signal processing and satellite communications, delivering greater precision in PNT (position, navigation and timing) and connectivity solutions. 

 

“The ADM-VB630, built around the AMD Versal™ AI Edge XQRVE2302 adaptive SoC, represents a significant step forward in on-orbit reconfiguration and high performance, low latency AI inference in space,” said Ken O’Neill, space systems architect, AMD. “Its robust design and AI capabilities are helping empower the next generation of space applications, from Earth observation to advanced satellite communications.” 

 

“Alpha Data continues to push the boundaries of space-capable reconfigurable computing technology with the ADM-VB630, delivering a powerful and efficient solution for next-generation satellite applications,” said Andrew McCormick, Technical Director and CTO, Alpha Data. “By enabling AI and advanced sensor processing in space, we are opening new frontiers for in-orbit intelligence and mission-critical applications.” 

Beyond its budget-friendly development board, the ADM-VB630 is also available in flight-build options, utilising a 3U VPX form factor to ensure a seamless transition from prototype to deployment. The design integrates a radiation-tolerant power supply from Texas Instruments and DDR4 memory from Teledyne-e2v, reinforcing its resilience in extreme environments. 

Environmental testing, including radiation, vibration, and thermal vacuum assessments, is currently in the planning phase with the potential to be conducted at facilities including the Science and Technologies Facilities Council’s (STFC). 

Customer shipments are expected to begin in Q2 2025. 

Find out more about how the ADM-VB630 can accelerate your technology roadmap at ESA AFTP (March 18-20, ESA Harwell, Oxfordshire, UK) and ESA SEFUW (March 25-27, ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands).

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Review

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the latest flagship on off but seen as an iterative upgrade from last years model which to be fair is a common trend amongst smartphone manufacturers and playing it safe, as the saying goes if it aint broke dont fix it.

Having had most the the flagship range over the years Samsung did give some small changes to the phone but you would find hard to distinguish between the last few models from the rear if you are not into your gadgets and the most notable one was the sharp edges ditched it is lighter and has a flat front display which is all good.

OK so it feels better in the hand before but if you have a case no different than any other previous behemoth phone which is good but this time around it looks and feels better. We done a walkthrough of the device here so you can have a better look at the UI and features

AI is the core here and I think people now are getting fed up with the AI terminology being used on a daily basis this is of course for some and not for others and even for me I am fed up hearing about it day in and day out however it is useful once implemented correctly and now all phone makers have their own interpretation of it and most of this we have already seen with Google who may stop Samsung in their tracks.

What are the differences between this year and last years models you might as well here we go.

S25 Ultra weighs in at 218g vs the 24s 232g

The Screen 6.9 vs 6.8 on last years

Main Camera is again 200mp ultrawide is 12mp over last years 50mp the zoom is better this time around being sharper in detail.

In video we have 4K60-24-30. 8K and 4K120 on the S25 on ultra wide while last years maxed out at 4K120

Both have the same 5000mAh battery this time the Spen has no bluetooth which is an odd omission for those who used it, there is a novelty factor to it I hardly used but did come in handy at times I will add and I am sure more productive people may miss this and for me did not use it as much as I would like too but it is great to have the functionality of it still present minus the bluetooth.

When it comes to being a workhorse it is I really liked the NOW briefing this is handy and easy to get the feel of and use to which I think many will enjoy over time as it gets to know you.

As one who used their phone all day long for blogging docs videos social and email and all heavy this was a breeze for me on the S25 Ultra and rightly so this is what it is for and it worked well with no issues no lag nor and shutdowns during the test period.

For camera and video again worked really well better than last years only slightly but you can be the judge of the samples below, yes we actually went out took photos and video day and night so you can see.

 

<a href=”https://youtu.be/PQaJjwHN7Kc?si=gz6kf8vDriuGktp3″>Images and Video Day and Night</a>

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Overall for me the S25 Ultra is again a great smartphone to have but I have been asked if it is worth the upgrade which most of it is software based and will come to other devices in their portfolio so for me if you want the latest and greatest well yes of course if you have last years and sat on the fence and in a two year contract for example with the S24 I would wait until next upgrade is due. There is great features on the S25 Ultra and some already borrowed from Pixel devices which I use daily and it really comes down then to brand loyalists here as to what they want or might already have elsewhere but either way you cant loose on said devices or the S25 Ultra.

Read more on the S25 Ultra <a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/2025/01/22/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-galaxy-s25-and-galaxy-s25-true-ai-companions/”>here</a&gt;

<a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/?s=S25+ultra+case+review”>S25 Ultra case reviews</a>

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Vodafone crowned Best Mobile Internet and 5G Provider in Ireland

<a href=”https://n.vodafone.ie/en.html”>Vodafone Ireland</a> has been awarded Best Mobile Internet Performance 2024, for a third year in a row, and Best 5G Provider in Ireland for 2024 at this year’s nPerf Awards. This recognition follows Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network transitioning customers to a faster, more efficient 4G and 5G network in 2024.

Short for network performance, nPerf is a trusted partner for both fixed and mobile operators, providing comprehensive network testing solutions and analysis. The results for 2024 were based on thousand of actual tests performed by users in real conditions using the nPerf application available on Android and iOS. nPerf points are calculated across five factors – Download (DL) Speed, Upload (UP) Speed, Latency (delay), Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming.

Vodafone Ireland maintained its leading position in Ireland’s mobile market, achieving the highest score of 108,153 nPoints, demonstrating its promise of a premium network making every connection count for its customers. The operator excelled in multiple categories and was the best-performing provider across four – Upload Speed, Latency, Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming – showcasing reliable performance in the 5G sector.

2024 saw Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network. This upgrade to a more sustainable, efficient and reliable 4G and 5G network offers all Vodafone Ireland customers an enhanced experience with improved connection across the country. Vodafone’s 5G is now available across Ireland with 78% population coverage.

Over the past three years, Vodafone has invested over €300 million into its network nationwide, with plans to invest an additional half a billion euros over the next four years. This investment will further enhance call and text reliability, provide superfast 4G and 5G services, and expand high-definition voice coverage for Vodafone customers.

Accepting the award, <b>Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland</b>, commented:

<i>“Every day, we strive to offer our customers the best, most reliable mobile network experience and this award is a testament to our teams across Ireland who work to deliver on this promise day in and day out.</i>

<i>“This award recognises our ability to respond to the ever-evolving needs of our customers, who increased their data usage by 20% last year alone and still experienced the same premium service they have come to expect from Vodafone.”</i>

<i>“We remain focused on supporting businesses across Ireland, with 60% of Irish businesses entrusting their mobile business accounts to Vodafone. We understand the critical role that robust and reliable connectivity plays in today’s fast-paced business environment, and we are dedicated to maintaining our position as the leading provider of mobile internet services. We look forward to bringing even more cutting-edge solutions to our customers, enhancing their digital experiences and supporting their connectivity, growth and success.” </i>

Recognising <a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/?s=vodafone”>Vodafone’s</a&gt; continued success in 2024,<b> Sébastien de Rosbo, Managing Director nPerf</b>, stated, “The year 2024 has seen Vodafone continue its strong performance in the Irish mobile market, particularly in the 5G space, despite a slight decrease in overall testing volume.”

Version 1 to invest in UK with 1,000 AI experts

Version 1, a leader in AI and digital transformation, today revealed it plans to invest £40m in the UK over the next few years through increased presence across its technology hubs. The addition of approximately 1,000 roles was welcomed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Taoiseach Michael Martin at a round table event with other industry leaders that formed part of the annual UK-Ireland summit, announced in September last year. The summit takes forward cooperation in four key areas to drive economic growth between the two countries, with the focus of today’s round table firmly on climate, energy, technology and innovation.

With discussions centred around the breadth and depth of shared values and interests between the UK and Ireland, Version 1 revealed that most of the new roles to be added over the coming years will be AI-related and located for proximity to its UK clients, situated across its London, Birmingham, Newcastle, Manchester, Edinburgh and Belfast locations. The company continues to deliver for many public sector organisations in the UK and Ireland on successful, large-scale transformation and AI projects that have significantly improved services for citizens and civil servants alike.

By further embedding rich technology expertise locally, leveraging partnerships and providing the upskilling and training required, (particularly around the fast-paced evolution of AI and responsible technology in regulated industries), Version 1 commits to support that will keep both economies at the forefront of innovation.

Paul Johnston, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Ireland commented; “it is a pleasure to see Version 1 among great business leaders at the UK-Ireland summit today. Their continued investment in our economy is a welcome and important commitment which makes a significant contribution to the Government’s growth mission.”

“We are privileged to be part of the exciting discussions today, as the largest indigenous Irish technology and AI services company with a major presence in the UK. It is very rewarding to hear how both leaders are working hard to strengthen connections and deliver on shared ambitions for greater opportunity, societal advancement and economic prosperity,” said Brad Mallard, Chief Technology Officer at Version 1. “We have a global presence but it’s our mission to deliver value for our customers from the best locations most suited to their needs, and this means investing locally and globally in the right skills and talent. As leaders in people-centric innovation powered by technology, we want the maximum benefit for our customers and the environments we work in.

With UK Government initiatives such as the AI Opportunities Action Plan and the new AI playbook, which are designed to boost economic value and drive productivity and efficiency across Government, we can align on shared objectives that ultimately deliver these benefits but keep the knowledge and skill sets in the right place too for sustainable growth.”

Deirdre McPartlin, Regional Director UK & Nordics at Enterprise Ireland, a long-term partner of Version 1 commented; “Version 1 is a valued client of Enterprise Ireland. Their journey of 28 years has helped establish Ireland as a strong contender for tech innovation and expertise.

We are delighted to see how they continue to grow globally and underscored their commitment to the UK even further with today’s news, joining also the important discussions that have taken place today between the UK and Ireland leaders. We will continue to fully support their ambitious plans which strengthen the business and contributes to the success of both our economies.”

myFirst Fone R2 4G eSIM Video Call Kids Smart Watch First Look

The myFirst Fone R2 4G eSIM Video Call Kids Smart Watch is one of three new products from the company now on sale in Ireland and for the better, typical kids smartwatches that ten to look like toys and out of the box this one does not and even looks great on the box.

Now this part is always left last from tech reviewers but not here you will need to pay a monthly fee but the first month is free so here you can decide if it is worth it or not and it will cost 9.99 a month thereafter. When you look at the way kids are today on phones it leaves a lot to be desired of the parents that give them a phone this is a better solution.

Today we take a quick first look at this and I am already impressed with its looks and design and any questions you have drop feel free to ask.

Features

  • ✅ Ultimate all-in-one wearable smartwatch for kids: The myFirst Fone R2 combines the functionalities of a phone, GPS tracker, music player, camera, clock, and fitness tracker into one convenient device.
  • ✅ Designed specifically for kids aged 5 to 12: The myFirst Fone R2 is packed with kid-friendly features and a durable design that can withstand the active lifestyles of young children.
  • ✅ Prioritizing Safety and Connection: Full compatibility with the newest FoneOS and the myFirst Circle app empowers parents with the ability to manage their child’s device and create a safe digital environment.
  • ✅ Stay connected anywhere, anytime: Video chat with loved ones on the go thanks to the built-in eSIM. With eSIM, switching carriers and plans is a breeze, whether you’re traveling abroad or looking for more flexibility. We offer eSIM service in 85+ countries (and expanding!), with basic plans starting at just $5/month. Plus, your first month is free!
  • ✅ Forget unreliable tracking! Smart Location Tracking uses advanced sensors and Wi-Fi signals to precisely follow your child’s movements. Combined with Smart Location Classification, our app provides insightful details about your child’s day. Imagine knowing they’re safely playing on the seventh floor, or visiting a friend on the fifteenth. Smart Location Tracking offers peace of mind for parents on the go.

 

 

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Best Strategies for Handling Tech Devices During Office Relocation

Relocating an office is a big job. There’s a lot to think about, from packing up desks to ensuring that technology is safely transported. Technology is the backbone of most businesses today, so taking care of tech devices during an office move is crucial.

If you don’t plan well, things could break, or important data could be lost. But don’t worry! We have simple strategies to help you handle tech devices smoothly during your office relocation.

Start Early and Plan Ahead

When moving tech, it’s important to start planning well in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute to think about how to move computers, printers, or servers. Create a timeline for the relocation, and include the tech move.

The earlier you start, the better you’ll be able to identify potential issues. You may need special equipment to transport sensitive devices or backup plans for any tech problems during the move.

Label Everything Clearly

A simple way to stay organized is to label all your tech devices. Labels should indicate where each item, including cords, chargers, and accessories, belongs in the new office space. If you have multiple computers or devices, give them clear labels.

Back Up Data Before the Move

Before packing devices with important business information, back up all your data. This is crucial for avoiding the risk of losing valuable files. Check that all files are fully synced if your company uses cloud storage.

If you store files locally, back up your data to external drives or cloud services. This ensures that you won’t lose crucial documents or information if something happens during the move.

Choose the Right Packing Materials

Tech devices need to be packed carefully to avoid damage during the move. The proper materials include bubble wrap, foam padding, and sturdy boxes.

Avoid using old boxes that might not provide enough protection. Each device should be wrapped securely to prevent scratches or damage. Be especially careful with fragile items, such as computer monitors or printers.

Hire Experts for Special Equipment

If you have large servers or other high-tech equipment, consider hiring experts specializing in handling technology, such as office removal services near Dublin. They will have the tools needed to move sensitive equipment safely, reducing the risk of damage.

Special equipment, such as server racks or climate-controlled transportation, may be necessary for some moves. To ensure everything arrives safely, it’s best to leave this to the professionals.

Ensure Proper Setup in the New Office

Once the tech devices are safely transported, it’s time to set them up. Make sure everything is connected correctly and tested before employees start using it. Double-check that all cables are plugged in and devices are powered up. 

Tech Devices: The Key to a Smooth Transition

Following these strategies doesn’t have to be stressful to relocate an office. You can ensure a smooth transition by planning, labeling everything, and backing up your data. Start early, stay organized, and you’ll be ready for the new office quickly.

Time to Make Your Move

Office relocations can be tricky, but with a little planning and care, your tech devices will be ready for action. Use these strategies to help make the transition as smooth as possible. If you want more tips on handling the moving process, keep reading our articles on office relocation. We’ve got all the advice you need!

For more on this content, visit the rest of our blog!

 

One in Three Irish Households Experience Cybercrime

Kyndryl the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, today published new research highlighting escalating threats from cyberattacks and scams to Irish households. The findings offer an in-depth perspective on cybersecurity readiness, habits and vulnerabilities among individuals in Ireland, highlighting a lack of basic cybersecurity precautions and awareness, which include:

  • One in five (20%) respondents reported directly experiencing a cyberattack or online fraud in the past year.
  • An additional 15% reported attacks within their household. In total, more than one in three (36%) Irish households have experienced cybercrime over the last 12 months.
  • Almost half (48%) of respondents reuse the same password across multiple sites.
  • More than a quarter (26%) acknowledge using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking and online shopping, exposing themselves to attacks.

“While businesses are grappling with the complexities of maintaining future-ready IT infrastructure, as highlighted in our recent Kyndryl Readiness Report, the same principles apply to consumers: effective cybersecurity starts with people,” said Chris Davis, Managing Director, Kyndryl Ireland. “Cybersecurity readiness isn’t just about having the latest tools – it’s about fostering awareness and proactive behaviours among individuals. Increasing public awareness and education is crucial to help individuals protect themselves in an ever-evolving digital environment. At Kyndryl, we believe that a collaborative effort involving government, businesses, and educational institutions is essential to fostering a more secure digital society, and we’re committed to supporting that mission.”

The new research was conducted by 3Gem Research and Insights and builds on findings of organizational readiness that Kyndryl recently published in its inaugural Readiness Report.

Cyber threat concerns are pervasive

Cybersecurity worries are widespread, with 73% of respondents most concerned about personal devices being hacked, such as smartphones and laptops. The second biggest concern is online scams (68%), followed by identity theft (58%). Nearly half (48%) fear sensitive information being leaked through data breaches, while 28% express anxiety over ransomware attacks.

Young adults most at risk of cyber fraud

Almost one in five (21%) individuals experienced a cyberattack or online fraud attempt in the last year, with an additional 15% reporting that a household member had been targeted.

Young adults, particularly those aged 25-34, appear to be the most vulnerable, with 29% having been directly targeted by cybercriminals. This figure drops to 19% for those aged 45-54, and just 11% for individuals aged 65 and above.

Poor password practices still prevalent
Password reuse remains a major security risk, with 48% of respondents stating they use the same password across multiple accounts – a habit that significantly increases vulnerability to cyberattacks. This risky behaviour is most prevalent among 18-24 year-olds (57%), compared to 36% of those aged 65+.

Alarmingly, 41% of respondents say they rely on memory to store their passwords, making it less likely they use strong, complex alphanumeric combinations. Reliance on memory increases with age, from 37% of 18-24 year-olds to 50% of 55-64 year-olds.

Only 24% of respondents use a password manager, considered one of the safest ways to store and generate strong passwords. Meanwhile, 17% write their passwords on paper, 12% rely on browser auto-fill, and 4% admit to using the same password for all accounts.

Risky online behaviour still common
Risky online practices remain widespread, with 26% of respondents admitting to using public Wi-Fi for online banking or shopping – leaving them exposed to potential attacks. This behaviour is particularly prevalent among younger age groups, with 41% of 18-24 year olds and 35% of 25-34 year olds engaging in this high-risk activity.

Additionally, 18% of respondents opt out of using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), a highly effective method for securing online accounts. Among younger respondents, the figure rises to 23% of 18-24 year olds and 24% of 35-44 year olds.

Consumers have little tolerance for data breaches

Consumers expect high standards of data protection from service providers. If a breach occurred, 74% of respondents said they would be likely to stop using a financial service, such as a bank or insurance provider, while 75% would do the same for social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram.

Slightly more lenient attitudes were noted for other services: 70% would be likely to stop using a retailer, 69% an email provider, and 64% a gaming service following a breach.

Public is divided on responsibility for cybersecurity education

When asked who should take the lead in educating the public about cybersecurity, 35% of respondents believed that this was the responsibility of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the body formally responsible for Ireland’s cybersecurity. Schools were the second-most popular choice, with 19% believing they should bear primary responsibility.

Meanwhile, only 12% of respondents feel employers should play a leading role, and just 7% believe universities should be primarily responsible for cybersecurity education.