Tag: access

SIM swapping: when your cell phone number is used for fraud

SIM swapping is a type of fraud in which criminals take control of a cell phone’s SIM card. Find out here what the consequences can be and how you can protect yourself.

In SIM swapping, criminals manipulate mobile phone providers to transfer the victim’s phone number to a SIM card that is in the possession of the fraudsters. In this way, you yourself are locked out of your cell phone and no longer have access to your own data. You will lose passwords as well as your saved performance at National Casino Ireland.

Access to your smartphone allows criminals to receive calls and messages from the victim and often bypass the two-factor authentication that many online services use to protect accounts.

SIM swapping: how the scam works

The SIM swapping process can take place in several steps, as the North Rhine-Westphalia police explain:

Obtaining information: criminals collect personal information about the victim, for example through data leaks, phishing, social engineering or buying data on the dark web.

Contacting the mobile phone provider: Using the information collected, the fraudsters contact the victim’s mobile phone provider and pretend to be them. For example, they claim to have lost their SIM card or that it is damaged and ask for the number to be transferred to a new SIM card.

Overcome verification: Accounts with mobile phone providers are often protected with two-factor authentication. This means, for example, that the mobile phone provider will send you a code via text message that you have to enter to confirm your identity. Fraudsters often try to circumvent this authentication by calling you and pretending to be a trustworthy institution. For example, they might introduce themselves as a parcel delivery service and say they need the code sent to them to deliver a parcel. If you tell them the code, they will give it to the mobile phone provider and can then proceed with the SIM swapping.

Number transfer: If the scam is successful, the victim’s phone number is transferred to the scammer’s SIM card. From this moment on, they can receive calls and messages from the victim.

Consequences of SIM swapping

SIM swapping means you lose access to your cell phone. SIM swapping can be devastating for those affected. Once fraudsters have access to the mobile account, they can use the data to gain access to other accounts. The consequences of SIM swapping therefore include

  • Financial loss: Fraudsters can access bank accounts, make bank transfers or steal credit card information.
  • Identity theft: With control of the phone number, criminals can steal more personal information and take over the victim’s identity.
  • Loss of access: Victims can lose access to their email accounts, social media and other online services that are protected by the phone number.

How to protect yourself from the scam

To protect yourself from SIM swapping, you can take the following preventative measures:

 

  • Be careful with your own data and don’t give it out carelessly over the phone or by email.
  • Make sure you publish as little personal data as possible, for example on social media or in Telegram channels. You should be particularly careful with your cell phone number.
  • If possible, use an antivirus program on your smartphone.
  • Do not download any data from unknown or insecure sources.
  • Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts and activate two-factor authentication (2FA), ideally via authentication apps instead of text messages.
  • Choose security questions and answers that are difficult to guess and cannot be derived from publicly available information.

If you have already fallen victim to SIM swapping, you should take the following steps:

Check all your relevant accounts and change your access data.

Inform your mobile phone provider about the fraud and all other account providers that the fraudsters are likely to be able to access (e.g. your bank). File a criminal complaint.

 

Nokia supplies private wireless to Maersk’s fleet for real-time cargo tracking

Nokia today announced that it has signed a contract with Danish global integrated logistics leader, Maersk, to equip 450 vessels in its fleet with Nokia’s industry-leading private wireless network solutions. This important deployment is part of Maersk’s IoT connectivity platform, OneWireless, which offers numerous benefits to its customers, including real-time cargo tracking, enhanced supply chain visibility, and improved operational efficiency.

The evolving environment of logistics and maritime operations is uniquely complex and highly mobile, requiring resilient and flexible technology for real-time asset tracking and positioning. By transitioning to Nokia’s private wireless technology, Maersk will overcome the challenges of its current infrastructure onboard both its own and chartered vessels and gain access to increased scalability and future-proof connectivity.

The new unified mobile network powered by Nokia’s radio portfolio is designed to support numerous IoT devices and secure interoperability between private and public networks, ensuring Maersk customers’ cargo is reliably monitored at sea, port, or land. This is especially important for tracking parameters such as temperature and humidity for fruit and other perishables.

“With our next-generation connectivity platform, we will be able to offer our customers notable benefits, including real-time cargo tracking, enhanced supply chain visibility, and improved operational efficiency. This platform is designed to support thousands of IoT devices, ensuring optimal performance for reefer tracking and fleet IoT,” says Kjeld Dittmann, Head of Vessel & Cargo Connectivity at Maersk.

“Nokia’s technology leadership in private wireless goes far beyond just connectivity, as demonstrated by this major new contract with Maersk. Our Radio Access portfolio and MantaRay network management solution will deliver reliable, real-time, and future-ready mobile networks that will optimize Maersk’s marine operations. We look forward to working collaboratively with them on this important project,” said Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia.

The solution leverages Nokia’s small cells portfolio, including Nokia Shikra Remote Radio Heads (RRH) and compact baseband, along with custom-designed antennas. Each vessel has a small core connected to the radio, utilizing satellite communication for backhaul. Additionally, Nokia’s intelligent network management system, MantaRay NM, located in Maersk’s operations center, provides a consolidated network view for optimal monitoring and management.

The deployment is underway and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.

Multimedia, technical information, and related news

Product Page: Shikra remote radio heads

Product Page: MantaRay NM

Web Page: Private networks

Revolutionising Connectivity in Ireland: Renewtech’s Affordable Refurbished Cisco Access Points

Efficient connectivity has become the backbone of modern businesses, from start-ups to multinational enterprises. Renewtech is transforming how companies in Ireland meet their networking needs through its range of refurbished Cisco Access Points. Combining affordability, sustainability and high-quality performance, these devices provide reliable and secure connectivity for businesses across various sectors.

Affordable Solutions for Diverse Business Needs

Renewtech’s refurbished Cisco Access Points offer a cost-effective networking solution for businesses of all sizes. Smaller organisations, often constrained by limited budgets, gain access to enterprise-grade technology that supports scalability and growth. Larger enterprises benefit from substantial cost reductions, enabling better allocation of financial resources across their IT infrastructure. The affordability of these devices addresses a critical need for high-quality connectivity without the premium price of new hardware; by choosing refurbished solutions, businesses can stretch their budgets further while maintaining access to industry-leading technology.

Reliability That Supports Productivity

Businesses depend on stable and consistent connectivity to maintain seamless operations. Renewtech’s refurbished Cisco Access Points deliver exceptional reliability, making them a dependable choice for enterprise networks. Each device undergoes rigorous testing and refurbishment to meet strict quality standards. The result is a network infrastructure capable of handling demanding workloads while minimising downtime, allowing businesses to focus on their core objectives. Reliable connectivity reduces operational risks, guaranteeing networks remain functional even in high-pressure scenarios.

Advanced Security for Today’s Challenges

In a climate of increasing cyber security threats, network security remains a top priority for businesses. Refurbished Cisco Access Points from Renewtech integrate robust security features that help safeguard sensitive data and prevent unauthorised access. These devices address critical security requirements with sophisticated encryption, advanced authentication protocols and secure configuration options. Comprehensive protection confirms businesses can safely manage sensitive operations while complying with industry standards and regulations. These features collectively create a resilient network infrastructure capable of mitigating evolving cyber threats.

Adaptability for Varied Environments

A versatile networking solution is essential for businesses operating in diverse environments. Renewtech’s refurbished Cisco Access Points are designed for both indoor and outdoor applications, making them suitable for office spaces, retail environments, industrial facilities and beyond. Devices built for outdoor use feature weather-resistant designs capable of withstanding challenging conditions while indoor models prioritise efficient coverage and scalability. Ultimately, adaptability helps businesses seamlessly expand or reconfigure networks as their operational needs evolve.

Promoting Sustainability in Technology

Reducing environmental impact has become a strategic priority for many organisations. Renewtech supports these efforts by extending the life cycle of high-performance networking hardware. Refurbishing devices prevents electronic waste from accumulating and reduces the demand for resources required to manufacture new equipment. Sustainable practices like this align with corporate social responsibility goals, giving businesses an environmentally conscious way to maintain technological competitiveness.

Balancing Cost Savings with Performance

A careful balance of cost-effectiveness and technical excellence characterises Renewtech’s refurbished offerings. Businesses achieve significant financial savings while benefiting from the advanced features and robust performance associated with Cisco’s industry-leading access points. This balance allows organisations to meet their networking requirements without compromising quality, enabling them to invest in other critical areas of growth and development. Ergo, access to cost-effective, high-performing solutions can help businesses maintain a competitive edge in their markets.

Preparing Businesses for the Future

The pace of digital transformation continues to accelerate, with reliable connectivity playing a central role in business success. Renewtech’s refurbished Cisco Access Points offer businesses a forward-looking solution that aligns with the demands of a digitally driven world. These devices combine advanced technology with adaptability, meeting the evolving needs of organisations across industries. Future-ready connectivity lays a strong foundation for innovation, allowing enterprises to confidently embrace emerging technologies.

Connectivity Solutions Redefining Business Success

Renewtech’s refurbished Cisco Access Points represent a significant advancement in networking solutions for businesses in Ireland. The emphasis on cost savings, sustainability and dependable performance addresses critical business needs across industries. With adaptable, high-quality devices, Renewtech empowers organisations to optimise their IT investments while reducing environmental impact. These solutions are driving a new era of connectivity, enabling businesses to thrive in an interconnected and digitally advanced world.

Building a Zero Trust Architecture: Key Considerations

Cybersecurity has become a major concern for businesses of all sizes. With the rise of sophisticated attacks, you’ve probably heard the term “Zero Trust” being thrown around. It’s not just a trend in the industry. It’s a shift in how we think about protecting our systems and data. The traditional approach, which assumed everything inside the network was safe, is no longer effective. In today’s world, threats can come from anywhere. So, instead of blindly trusting what’s inside, Zero Trust operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.”

This article explores key considerations when building a Zero Trust architecture and how it can help protect your business in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

1. Understanding the Need for Zero Trust

In today’s threat environment, cyberattacks have become more complex. Organizations can no longer rely on the old method of building a strong perimeter and assuming everything inside is safe. The rise of insider threats and more advanced attack methods demand a more thorough approach.

One reason Zero Trust has gained so much attention is that attackers are increasingly targeting key identity systems. Common attacks on Active Directory (AD), for example, are on the rise. AD holds essential identity information, making it a high-value target for cybercriminals. Attackers often exploit weaknesses in privileged access management to breach systems. Once inside, they move laterally across the network, often gaining full control of the environment. This makes securing Active Directory critical when considering Zero Trust.

By implementing a Zero Trust model, businesses can better protect their identity systems, such as AD, by ensuring that every action, whether it’s a login or access to a resource, is verified continuously.

2. Identity and Access Management (IAM) at the Core

At the heart of any Zero Trust architecture is Identity and Access Management (IAM). IAM ensures that only the right people, devices, and applications can access your systems, and it does so by verifying them continuously, not just once. In the past, a user would log in and, once inside, be trusted until they logged out. Zero Trust changes that by constantly checking if the user should still be granted access.

One critical element of IAM is multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires users to verify their identity through more than one method, such as a password and a mobile app confirmation. Relying on passwords alone is risky, as passwords can be stolen, guessed, or reused across multiple accounts.

Zero Trust takes identity management a step further by ensuring that users only have access to what they need, nothing more. This limits the scope of potential damage in the event of a breach.

3. Microsegmentation: Controlling Access to Network Resources

Microsegmentation is another key principle in a Zero Trust environment. In simple terms, it means breaking your network into smaller, more secure segments. This way, even if an attacker gains access to one part of your network, they can’t easily move to another part. Each segment acts like a locked room that the attacker would need additional verification to enter.

This approach helps limit lateral movement, a common tactic used by cybercriminals once they’ve breached a network. By limiting what users and devices can access, you make it much harder for attackers to navigate and compromise other parts of your environment.

Microsegmentation also works hand-in-hand with the idea of least-privilege access. Users and systems should only be granted access to the resources they absolutely need to do their job and nothing more. By applying this concept, you reduce the chances of attackers gaining access to critical resources even if they breach a less important part of the network.

4. Monitoring and Logging Everything

In a Zero Trust architecture, monitoring and logging play a critical role. Continuous monitoring allows organizations to track every request, transaction, and action happening on the network. This ensures that nothing goes unnoticed, and any suspicious behavior can be caught and responded to quickly.

Logging is equally important. By keeping detailed logs of all network activity, security teams can trace the steps of an attacker and better understand how they gained access and what they did once inside. This information is invaluable for both preventing future attacks and improving your current security measures.

Advanced monitoring tools can also help by sending real-time alerts when something unusual happens. For example, if a user suddenly tries to access a part of the network they’ve never accessed before, a security team can be notified immediately and take action to verify whether it’s legitimate.

5. Enforcing Least Privilege Access

“Least privilege” is a core principle of Zero Trust. This means that users and systems should only have the access they need to perform their tasks and nothing more. If a user needs temporary access to a resource, they should be given it for the time required and then have that access revoked.

By limiting the scope of access, even if an attacker gains control of an account, they can’t use it to access critical systems or sensitive data. Regularly reviewing access permissions is important to ensure that users aren’t sitting on permissions they no longer need.

Admins are especially important to monitor. Admin accounts often have access to sensitive data and system controls, making them prime targets for attackers. Ensuring that admin privileges are tightly controlled helps minimize the risks of a breach.

6. Protecting the Network Edge

In today’s remote work world, the network edge has expanded beyond the physical office. Employees are accessing company resources from home, cafes, and various other locations. With this in mind, Zero Trust needs to protect not just the internal network but also the devices and users accessing the network from the outside.

This means verifying users and devices every time they connect, no matter where they are. Whether it’s a cloud service, a remote worker, or an external partner, Zero Trust ensures that access is always verified, regardless of the location or device being used.

7. The Role of Automation in Zero Trust

Automation can play a significant role in enforcing a Zero Trust architecture by handling the heavy lifting of continuous verification. In a Zero Trust environment, every action, login attempt, and data access request requires validation. With hundreds or even thousands of users making requests every minute, managing these processes manually is not just inefficient—it’s practically impossible. This is where automation steps in to streamline the workload.

Automation tools can be programmed to enforce security policies consistently, ensuring that no exceptions or mistakes slip through the cracks. For instance, they can instantly revoke access for users exhibiting unusual behavior, preventing potential threats from escalating. Additionally, automated systems can monitor for known attack patterns, like credential stuffing or lateral movement, and block such actions before they cause damage.

Building a Zero Trust architecture may seem like a big task, but it’s one of the best ways to protect your organization in today’s threat landscape. By focusing on identity verification, limiting access, and constantly monitoring activity, you can secure your network without relying on outdated assumptions of trust.

As cyberattacks continue to evolve, so should your approach to security. Zero Trust offers a modern, proactive way to defend against attackers, making it an essential strategy for businesses looking to protect their data and systems effectively.

OxygenCare announces new partnership to improve access to life-saving defibrillators in Ireland

OxygenCare, a leading provider of life-saving medical equipment and solutions, announces a new partnership with Defibtech, a manufacturer of life-saving resuscitation devices, to improve the availability of rescue-ready defibrillators in Ireland which could save lives.

Defibtech, a long-standing American manufacturer in medical technology, is dedicated to crafting dependable, affordable, and user-friendly products, empowering communities globally to respond to sudden cardiac arrest.

Joseph Mullally, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Defibtech, said: “Partnering with an industry leader like OxygenCare was a natural fit for Defibtech. We have a shared mission to provide emergency medical technology and spread awareness which can save lives. We recognise that the true impact of our work lies not only in the accessibility of our products but also through knowledge and skills”.

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in Ireland, with at least 9,000 deaths and 25,000 hospital admissions each year according to the HSE. The availability of functional defibrillators is crucial, and inadequate maintenance has rendered many devices non-functional, exacerbating the issue.

Conrad Wynne, Senior Product Specialist, Resuscitation, OxygenCare, said: “This partnership with Defibtech not only enhances our critical care offering but enables us to help ensure that AEDs across Ireland are both available and functional when people need them. Emergency situations arise all the time and every second counts in these situations, so having operational, life-saving technology is crucial.

As a leading provider of emergency and resuscitation equipment, OxygenCare has extensive experience and a long-standing reputation in the Irish healthcare industry. The addition of Defibtech’s Lifeline AED (automated external defibrillators) greatly enhances its existing portfolio.

Joseph Mullally added: “By combining our defibrillator products with OxygenCare’s support and service, we’re equipping organisations and communities across Ireland with the tools, knowledge and confidence to act decisively in the face of cardiac emergencies. Together, we are on a journey to reach this goal, saving lives and safeguarding communities, one heartbeat at a time.”

Revolut launches Instant Access Savings in Ireland

Revolut, the global financial app used by more than 40 million customers worldwide, has today rolled-out Instant Access Savings accounts to its more than 2.7 million customers in Ireland. Instant Access Savings accounts are a new and better way for customers in Ireland to save their money. Customers will be able to earn daily, competitive interest of up to 3.49% AER on their deposits, all in just a few taps.

Instant Access Savings complements an existing feature Revolut announced in Ireland earlier this year, which enables customers to invest their cash in money market funds to grow their wealth in either EUR, USD, and GBP.

Instant Access Savings is the newest feature to Revolut’s all-star financial app, where customers will have, upon launch, access to interest on deposits at the following variable annual gross rates: Standard & Plus plans 2% AER, Premium 2.5%, Metal 3%, and Ultra 3.49%.

Revolut’s new Instant Access Savings account gives customers the ability to move their cash into their savings as soon as their salary reaches their account, earning interest on those funds every day, unlike other banks. Customers who would like to earn higher interest rates can upgrade their existing plans from Standard to paid plans in just a few taps within the app.

Instant Access Savings offers savers in Ireland full control too; customers will have access to their funds on-demand whilst earning competitive interest, adding or withdrawing at any time.

Joe Heneghan, Partner & Chief Executive Officer – Revolut Europe, said: “The Irish banking landscape is characterised by some of the lowest deposit rates in Europe, tricky or confusing limits, inaccessibility, and a real lack of competition. Today, Revolut is stepping in with a solution that makes saving money much better and much simpler for the people of Ireland. With our app now the preferred choice for managing finances every day for millions of customers in Ireland, we’re introducing Instant Access Savings accounts to offer customers great rates of up to 3.49%, full control over their money at any time, and interest paid out daily. Now when payday arrives, customers can confidently allocate a portion of their salary to their savings without having to worry about accessing it when they need it.”

Albert Codorniu, General Manager of Savings at Revolut, commented: “This is a key step in our mission to make Revolut the best choice for everyday banking. With daily interest payments and instant-access withdrawals, secured by our fully licensed bank, we’re making it simpler and better than ever for our customers to save and grow their money in Ireland.”

To open an Instant Access Savings account and start earning interest, customers need to:

  • Update their Revolut app to the latest version.
  • Tap on ‘Accounts’
  • Tap ‘Add new’
  • Scroll down and tap on ‘Savings & Funds’
  • Choose ‘Instant Access Savings’.

For more information about the product see product T&Cs. For more information about deposit protection see the deposit insurance page. For more information about complaints and disputes see the complaints policy page.

Revolut bank UAB is authorised by the bank of Lithuania in the Republic of Lithuania and by the European Central Bank and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules.

For more information, visit: www.revolut.com/en-IE/instant-access-savings 

Google.org announces €500,000 in funding to improve access to AI in Ireland

Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google is today making €500,000 in grants available to help improve access to AI in Ireland – with a focus on those in vulnerable and underserved communities. As part of the AI Opportunity Initiative, funding from Google.org will support training and skills for workers who are most likely to be impacted by workplace transitions brought on by AI.

Developed in collaboration with the Centre for Public Impact, Google.org’s AI Opportunity Fund, is making up to €500,000  in grants and sub-grants available in Ireland. Google is seeking applications through an open call from social enterprises and nonprofits in Ireland who can help reach those people most likely to benefit from this training – equipping workers here with the skills they need to avoid being left behind.

Selected organisations will receive bespoke training for their beneficiaries on foundational AI with extensive guidance and wraparound support. In addition, cash grants will be offered to support successful applicants, ensuring workers can attend the training.

Cera Ward, Managing Director, Large Customer Sales, Google Ireland, said:

“AI has the potential to improve people’s  lives, and to help solve some of our most pressing societal challenges. We’re pursuing AI boldly and responsibly to ensure its benefits are available to everyone and that accessibility enhances our society – not exacerbates existing inequalities.  The AI Opportunity Fund will help people in Ireland to develop their knowledge, skills and confidence around AI, ensuring that no one is left behind.”

The application window is open. Information and details on the Google.org landing page: https://aiopportunityfund.withgoogle.com/

National Strategy for Open Education Practices Strategy would widen access to education in Ireland – OER24

A national strategy for Open Education Practices is needed to address current and future access and equity issues in the Irish higher education sector. That’s according to the N-TUTORR programme, a collaboration across the Technological Higher Education sector focused on transforming the student experience and fostering more inclusive and sustainable learning environments for all. The call for a national strategy came at OER24, the 15th annual Association of Learning Technology conference for Open Education Research, Practice and Policy. The event is taking place in Munster Technological University’s Bishopstown Campus in Cork today and tomorrow.

Open education seeks to widen access to and participation in education by removing barriers and making learning accessible through the likes of digital technologies and modern education practices.

At the event’s opening reception, N-TUTORR published a sectoral white paper on Open Educational Practices outlining a number of recommendations and actions which will diminish barriers to accessing education, and foster equity and inclusion across the technological higher education sector.

Speaking today, Dr Gearóid Ó Súilleabháin, Head of the Department of Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL), MTU and Co-Chair of OER24, said: “While there is no official national policy document on open education in Ireland, numerous reports and initiatives have highlighted the importance of developing open education principles and institutional repositories for research outputs and teaching resources.

“We are urging the Government to prioritise developing a National OEP Strategy aligned with UNESCO’s Recommendation on Open Educational Resources. OEP can have a transformative impact on the technological higher education sector, enhancing accessibility and data privacy, promoting participatory learning and student engagement, and supporting pedagogical flexibility and innovation.”

Topics discussed at OER24 will include:

  • Ethical considerations surrounding the use of generative AI for open education resources, and its potential in making educational content more accessible;
  • The connection between Open Education, Open Data, the Open-Source movement, and digital scholarship/librarianship
  • The role of Open Educational Resources (OER) in serving marginalised groups and in promoting inclusivity, diversity and equity in open education.

 

Keynote speakers include:

  • Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani, Vice Provost, Teaching and Learning at Brock University in Ontario, Canada. The architect of Canada’s first zero textbook cost degree programs, his work focuses on open educational practices, student-centred pedagogies, and ethical approaches to educational technology.
  • Dr. Catherine Cronin, an independent scholar focusing on critical and social justice approaches in open, digital and higher education. Catherine actively interweaves work in the higher education and community education sectors.
  • Laura Czerniewicz, Professor Emerita at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, previously the founding director of its Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching. Her professional life has engaged in education from many perspectives including researcher, teacher, publisher and open education advocate, with a consistent focus on equity, digital inequality and justice.

 

Further information on OER24 is available here: https://www.oer2024.co.uk/; and information on the N-TUTORR project is available here: https://www.transforminglearning.ie/.

THE GIRLS IN GREEN LEGACY: Seeing Televised Professional Sport provides A Real Incentive To Take It Up, But Access To Local Clubs Is Vital

More than 2.4m people watched RTÉ television’s coverage of the Women’s Football World Cup in Australia and New Zealand last summer.  In that tournament, the Republic of Ireland’s game against Canada was the most watched women’s team sport event in Irish TV history with an average of 551,000 viewers.

New research from Royal London, the founding partner of the first British and Irish Lions Women’s Rugby Tour, shows the wider significance of viewing figures like these. Almost one in four (24%) of parents surveyed across Ireland say the more sport is shown on TV, the more likely their children are to take it up. Furthermore, 15% of parents in Ireland say their child took up a team sport after seeing it live professionally, and 15% say their child got into team sports as they were inspired watching a sporting role model on TV. However, the ability to play alongside their friends is also a big draw for children when it comes to sport, with more than one in three (35%) of the parents in Ireland surveyed citing the opportunity to play alongside their friends as the reason their children became interested in sport.

Over a fifth (23%) of parents in Ireland say their children have been involved in team sports due to having access to a local club. When looking at how realistic this is for children across Ireland, more than seven in ten (72%) of adults have a sports club within half an hour of their home. However, one in five (22%) have to travel longer than 30 minutes, while 6% don’t know where their local sports club is. Interestingly, while the numbers were low overall, of the women surveyed, they were seven times as likely as men not to know the location of their local sports club (7pc of women versus 1pc of men).

When reflecting on their own decision to take up team sports, 44% of adults in Ireland did so to play with friends and three in ten (30%) said it was a fun way to keep fit that wasn’t solo. A quarter (25%) were encouraged to play by a teacher or coach.

Shaunagh Brown, professional rugby player for England and Harlequins, says: “This Women’s Lions tour, the first of its kind, will allow more people to witness women playing rugby at a high level. I was interested, but not surprised, that the research showed more adults would consider taking up a team sport if they saw people who looked and sounded like them playing it. To believe you can do it, you have to see someone like you living, breathing and enjoying it. And, even if you don’t end up following a professional path with sport, the benefits you will feel from playing as part of a team in terms of greater confidence, resilience and improved social skills will be with you for the rest of your life.”

Susie Logan, chief marketing officer at Royal London says: “At present, through either a lack of airtime or wider exposure, some women’s sports have not yet been visible enough to inspire future generations.

The blend of seeing it played well on TV and taking it up with friends is key. Team sports create a community and can become an important part of a child’s development. We need to keep striving towards equality at all levels, whether that be what’s televised or at grassroots. Both are essential to create foundations for the future and give every child the inspiration and access they need to thrive playing team sport. This is why we’re proud to partner with the first British and Irish Lions Women’s Rugby Tour.

Royal London has been announced as Founding Partner of the first ever Lions Women’s team. The partnership will see Royal London invest in player development in each of The British & Irish Lions constituent Unions through the delivery of a special elite players’ Pathways Funding grant. The grants will support the elite women’s player and coach pathways in Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and England, to help Unions develop more players and coaches capable of being selected for the inaugural Lions Women’s Tour. In addition, Royal London will also be investing in women’s and girls’ grassroots rugby across the UK and Ireland in the run-up to the Tour.”