Tag: Scams

WoW Pandaria Gold for Sale – Safe and Fast Trades

Understanding the Importance of Gold in Pandaria

In the vibrant world of Pandaria, gold isn’t just a shiny currency; it’s the lifeblood of your gaming experience. Understanding the importance of gold means grasping how it enhances your journey, from purchasing essential gear to funding your crafting endeavors. Gold farming becomes a crucial activity, allowing you to accumulate wealth and boost your currency value in the game. Gold farming becomes a crucial activity, allowing you to accumulate wealth and boost your currency value in the game, making it easier to invest in rare mounts, consumables, and upgrades—especially if you’re looking to buy WoW Anniversary Gold for special events and seasonal rewards.

As you engage in quests and battles, the gold you earn serves as a gateway to upgrading your character and revealing new content. The economic dynamics of Pandaria mean that knowing how to effectively farm gold can greatly impact your gameplay.

Whether you’re selling rare items or completing daily quests, every coin counts. The strategic management of your gold can lead to a richer, more fulfilling gameplay experience, enabling you to focus on exploring the wonders of Pandaria without the constant worry of financial constraints.

Where to Buy WoW Pandaria Gold Safely

How can you guarantee a safe purchase when buying WoW Pandaria gold? It’s crucial to choose the right platform and sellers to confirm your transaction is secure. Here are some key points to keep in mind when looking for trusted sellers:

  • Reputation: Look for sellers with positive reviews and a long-standing presence in the market.
  • Secure Payments: Always use platforms that offer secure payment methods, protecting your financial information.
  • Customer Support: Choose sellers that provide responsive customer support to address any concerns.
  • Delivery Guarantees: Opt for sellers who guarantee timely delivery of your gold, making sure you get what you paid for.

Tips for Ensuring Fast Transactions

To guarantee your transactions for WoW Pandaria gold are as fast as possible, it’s vital to streamline the process from start to finish. Start by choosing a reputable seller known for their quick service. Look for reviews that specifically mention transaction speed, as this indicates their reliability.

Next, prepare your in-game character for the gold transfer; make sure they’re in a designated location and available to accept the trade promptly. Clear communication is key—confirm the amount and method of transfer before proceeding.

Also, consider using a secure payment method that allows for instant transactions. This not only enhances transaction speed but also protects your financial details.

Lastly, keep your inventory organized to facilitate a smooth gold transfer; having unnecessary items can slow things down. By following these tips, you can enjoy a fast, efficient gold-buying experience in Pandaria!

Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

Scams can be a significant risk when buying WoW Pandaria gold, and recognizing them quickly can save you time and money. To guarantee safe transactions, keep an eye out for common red flags in scam detection:

  • Unrealistic Prices: If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Poor Communication: Lack of professionalism or evasive answers can indicate a scammer.
  • No Reputation: Always check for reviews and feedback from previous buyers.
  • Payment Method Warnings: Avoid sellers asking for unconventional payment methods, as they may be trying to exploit you.

Maximizing Your In-Game Wealth With Purchased Gold

After ensuring a safe purchase, maximizing your in-game wealth with the gold you’ve acquired is the next step. Start by investing in high-demand items through the auction house. This can yield considerable returns if you buy low and sell high, utilizing smart economic strategies.

Engage in gold farming techniques alongside your purchased gold. Focus on gathering materials or crafting items that are currently trending in the market. Research the economy of Pandaria; knowing what’s in demand can help you capitalize on your investments.

Consider diversifying your assets by purchasing both consumables and gear, as these can help you progress faster in the game. Additionally, join a guild that shares similar goals; they often have insights and strategies to enhance your gold-making efforts. By marrying your purchased gold with effective gold farming, you can considerably boost your wealth and enjoy an enriched gameplay experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Legal to Buy Wow Gold for Real Money?

Buying WoW gold for real money isn’t strictly legal within the game’s terms. You should consider the legal implications and the ethics of gold farming, as it can impact your gaming experience and community integrity.

How Does Buying Gold Affect My Gameplay Experience?

Buying gold can disrupt game balance and the player economy. You might find yourself progressing faster, but it could diminish the sense of achievement, making your gameplay experience less rewarding and more transactional than immersive.

Can I Get Banned for Purchasing Gold in Wow?

Yes, you can get banned for purchasing gold in WoW. The risks of gold buying often jeopardize your account security, as Blizzard strictly enforces rules against it. It’s better to earn gold through gameplay.

What Payment Methods Are Accepted for Gold Purchases?

You can typically use PayPal transactions and various credit card options for gold purchases. Always check the seller’s payment methods to guarantee a smooth transaction process and to protect your financial information.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Purchased Gold?

Gold delivery times typically range from a few minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the gold transaction speed. You’ll want to check the seller’s reputation to guarantee prompt and reliable service.

 

Tech Industry Alliance Announces TechFest 2026

Tech Industry Alliance has announced the official launch of TechFest 2026, the South West’s leading technology conference, bringing together technology leaders, policymakers, innovators, and industry experts for a high-impact, in-person event exploring one of the defining issues of our time: how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping business, society and public trust.

TechFest, the flagship annual conference from Tech Industry Alliance, will take place at the Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork, from 09:00 on Thursday, 21 May 2026. This year’s theme, “AI, Technology & the Future: Innovation, Intelligence and Human Impact,” will explore both the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany rapid advances in artificial intelligence.

Tickets for the conference are now available at:https://techindustryalliance.ie/tech-industry-alliance-techfest-2026/

The dynamic one-day conference will feature high-profile keynote speakers, expert panel discussions, and real-world industry case studies. The programme is designed to provide both strategic insight and practical application, examining not only the transformative potential of AI, but also the governance, regulatory and ethical frameworks required to scale it responsibly.

TechFest 2026 will welcome Jamie Bartlett, a UK-based author, researcher, and broadcaster specialising in the societal impact of emerging technologies, online culture and digital power. He is the author of several acclaimed books including the bestselling The Dark Net, Radicals, The People Vs Tech and The Missing Cryptoqueen, with his work translated into 15 languages. Bartlett founded the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media at the think tank Demos and is a regular commentator across national and international media. His expertise spans cybersecurity, crypto scams, online subcultures and the influence of technology on politics. His TED Talk, How the Mysterious Dark Net Is Going Mainstream, has been viewed more than five million times.

Guiding attendees through the day will be Jonathan McCrea, acclaimed science communicator, and AI master trainer. Known for making complex technology accessible and engaging, Jonathan will help frame discussions around the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption, ensuring an insightful and thought-provoking experience for attendees.

Matthew Camilleri, Chairperson of Tech Industry Alliance, said:
“We are delighted to announce TechFest 2026. From the societal risks associated with AI, cybersecurity threats, and criminal misuse, to regulation, innovation enablement and enterprise adoption, this year’s conference will offer a balanced and forward-looking agenda. TechFest continues to bring together the voices shaping the future of technology in Ireland. This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, who recognise the critical importance of the technology sector to the Munster region. Following the success of last year’s conference, we look forward to building on that momentum in 2026.”

With more than 400 attendees expected, TechFest 2026 will provide a unique opportunity to network, collaborate, and share insights across the technology ecosystem. The event will feature speakers from technology companies, academia, government, law enforcement, and cybersecurity, alongside organisations already deploying AI solutions in real-world environments. The full line up of speakers will be released in the coming weeks.

Given the high level of interest, early registration is encouraged as the event is expected to sell out.

For exhibitor and sponsorship enquiries, contact info@techindustryalliance.ie

Cyber attacks hit fifth of firms as ‘online NCT’ launched

Almost one in five of Ireland’s top companies have experienced significant cyber attacks in the last two years, new data shows

The findings come as national domain registry .IE launches Ireland’s first Digital Trust Mark.

Described as an NCT for your online identity, websites and emails carrying the distinctive wolfhound symbol will give customers confidence that businesses of all sizes are operating to the highest digital standards.

“If you have an online presence, you can now be assessed on DigitalTrust.ie in just a few clicks,” said Louise McKeown Doogan, Chief Growth Officer at .IE.

“Once an organisation applies, their website, email and domain setup is assessed using a proprietary scoring evaluation that checks against industry-defined best practice.

“These checks confirm that digital fundamentals are correctly configured, responsibly managed and set up to support trust and reliability online.

“Once you receive your Digital Trust Score, you will either be entitled to carry the mark or you will have clear next steps to reach the required standard.

“We live in an age where some ransomware companies now have customer care departments, and the online health of the nation needs to improve as a consequence.”

The research found that 17pc of Ireland’s key organisations have experienced a significant cyber attack since 2024.

Conducted by Amárach on behalf of .IE, it surveyed 354 essential Irish firms in January.

It follows last week’s Garda data that fraud-related crimes more than doubled in the last 12 months, up 137pc – mainly due to bank scams, phishing and smishing.

“Our findings are concerning, particularly when we know phishing scams (60pc) and the exploitation of system weaknesses (21.3pc) are the most common ways attackers gain access,” said Ms McKeown Doogan.

“An online presence that appears to function may not always demonstrate the authenticity and trustworthiness customers expect.

“Until now there has been no visible way for consumers to know that a website meets a recognised standard – and no way for businesses or organisations to signal that they do.

“The mark signals that they demonstrate authenticity, responsible digital practice and a trustworthy online experience.

“We hope it will become a digital equivalent of the NCT and an essential part of interacting online in Ireland within the next year.”

The Digital Trust Mark is not just for .ie domains but is open to .com and other domains used by Irish organisations.

Applicants will receive a grade by the next working day and if an A-rating is achieved, businesses can display the mark on their website or in their email signature for the following 12 months.

Domains that do not reach an A-rating will be given a detailed outline of what and how they can improve.

See digitaltrust.ie for more information.

How to Protect Yourself Against Romance Scams

As Valentine’s Day, February 14, approaches, organizations across countries, including the FBI in the US, warn people to be aware of romance scams, where cybercriminals create fake identities and manipulate people into sending money. Cybersecurity experts urge users to be particularly cautious this year, as AI enables even more realistic scams, and are offering tips on how to stay safe.

At the start of February, Nigerian police arrested a local cybercriminal for allegedly being involved in a large-scale romance scam. The man posed as “Travis Kevin,” a doctor from the US on Facebook and Instagram, and asked his victims for money for medical supplies in crypto, promising to repay them soon.

The FBI, UK police, and organizations in other countries have recently issued warnings to be cautious about similar Romance scenarios.

A previous report from the US Federal Trade Commission estimated that romance scams in the US alone cost users over a billion dollars back in 2023. Experts at Planet VPN, a VPN provider that emphasizes free service, claim that since then, these types of scams have increased both in numbers and sophistication.

Konstantin Levinzon, co-founder of Planet VPN, says that offenders typically employ tactics such as emotional manipulation and false promises of love or partnership, before fabricating emergencies or investment opportunities.

“Cybercriminals create fake identities on dating sites and social media using psychological manipulation to convince victims to send money. They are increasingly relying on generative AI tools to make their scams more convincing. With AI enabling the creation of fake images and videos with just a click, users should be particularly cautious,” Levinzon says.

A recent report from British bank TSB claims that people aged 65-74 were involved in the most romance fraud cases (23%), with those over 55 making up 58% of cases overall.

Meanwhile, social media platforms were linked to 58% of cases, while dating sites were involved in 42%. The data shows that 30% of scams were connected to Facebook, the highest among all platforms.

Levinzon emphasizes that when it comes to protection from scammers, the same principles apply across all platforms.

“Be suspicious of anyone you’ve never met in person – that’s the only safe approach in a digital world increasingly filled with scams,” says Levinzon. “If someone you meet on a dating site seems suspicious, perform a reverse image search to check if their pictures are stolen from other sources. And if the conversation shifts to money, or if someone asks for personal information, leave the conversation immediately.”

To maximize protection, Levinzon advises using a VPN network. Some scammers can track users’ locations and then try to target them with personalized scams based on their country. When a VPN is turned on, it hides the person’s IP address and location, and encrypts all the data, making it invisible even to your internet service provider.

“For maximum security online, we also advise using strong passwords for all your social media accounts and dating sites, and enabling multifactor authentication. In addition, ensure that your privacy settings on social media platforms are set to the highest level, and limit who can see your posts and personal details,” Levinzon says.

Revolut amps up fight against impersonation scams

Revolut, the global fintech with more than 65 million global customers and 12 million in the UK, is today launching a new in-app feature designed to protect users from one of the most insidious types of fraud: impersonation scams. The new feature detects when a customer opening the Revolut app is on the phone – this includes apps allowing voice calls – and confirms whether they are, or not, talking with a Revolut agent. It goes one step further than similar features in the market, helping customers promptly take the right action to report attempted fraud and keep their funds safe if it is found they’re being targeted.

With the rise of AI-generated deepfake voices and increasingly sophisticated social-engineering tactics, criminals are finding new ways to convince consumers they are speaking to their bank or somebody they trust. Impersonation scams trick victims into believing they’re on a legitimate call with a trusted financial institution or person – often pressuring them to move money to safer accounts, to share sensitive data, or to approve fraudulent transactions.

This threat is accelerating rapidly. Scammers can now generate highly convincing scripts and even synthetic voice mimics. Concerningly, A 2021 study found that only 25% of people can accurately distinguish a deepfake voice from a real one – however, most participants falsely believed they could identify the fakes. This leaves people vulnerable to scams – only adding to the surge of APP (Authorised Push Payment) fraud.

Empowering users with timely, actionable protection

Revolut’s new feature introduces a live in-app banner that appears the moment the app detects the user is on a phone call. The system identifies whether the call is coming from Revolut or from another number and advises accordingly:

  • If the caller is Revolut, the banner will confirm that the call is legit
  • If the caller is not Revolut, the user will see a clear, urgent banner informing them that they are not on a call with Revolut
  • Tapping the banner leads users to actionable protection pathways based on what’s happening.

This real-time contextual system provides an additional layer of defence against impersonation attempts that occur during live calls – a scenario where victims can be caught off guard and vulnerable under pressure.

Rami Kalai, Product Owner at Revolut said: “Revolut is committed to building a safer financial future. As fraudsters adopt AI and advanced deepfake tools, we need to innovate fast to defend our customers and stay ahead of rapidly evolving fraud threats. This new feature not only gives users real-time, contextual warnings in the moment they need them most but also guides them to identify impersonation scams providing clear, actionable steps to keep their money safe while the fraud attempt is happening.”

A broader strategy to protect customers

This launch builds on a suite of recent features introduced by Revolut to protect customers from scams and unauthorised activity. In 2024 alone, Revolut’s advanced fraud-prevention systems saved customers more than £600 million that would have otherwise been lost to scams. Recent releases include:

  • In-App Calls – allowing customers to speak to Revolut directly and securely via the in-app feature, eliminating the need to trust phone numbers received externally in the vast majority of cases.
  • Wealth Protection and Street Mode – features designed to keep transfers safe through biometric verification and delay them, in the case of Street Mode, to contrast specific events like transfer mugging.
  • Enhanced machine-learning systems that detect and block risky transactions before they leave a customer’s account.

The new feature is already active for all Revolut customers with an iOS device. Android users will need to proactively authorise the feature from the Security Hub.

Disclaimer

This feature is optional for Android users and does not guarantee complete protection

Bank of Ireland warns customers of “smishing” scams this Christmas

Bank of Ireland is urging customers to stay alert to ‘Smishing’ scams over the festive season, as fraudsters try to exploit consumer behaviour by sending them fraudulent text messages during the busy shopping period.

With online shopping and parcel deliveries at peak levels, scammers are sending texts that look like they’ve been sent by trusted delivery companies, motorway toll services, utility providers, Government agencies or even from the banks themselves.

These fraudulent messages often include links to fake websites designed to steal card or online banking details or trying to pressure consumers into paying a delivery or customs charge or update bank account details. Other “smishing” texts will contain a fake phone number that, when called, connects you to a fraudster posing as a representative of the company or from your own bank.

Bank of Ireland is also reminding customers that its dedicated fraud support team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout Christmas and into the New Year. Last year Bank of Ireland’s fraud prevention team received over 10,000 calls from customers during the peak holiday period (23 December to 29 December), with 550 calls received on Christmas day alone.

As part of Bank of Ireland’s four-point plan to prevent fraud, it has called for the introduction of legislation to allow an SMS scam filter to be deployed in Ireland. This filter would help stop SMS fraud attempts before they happen. Ireland is currently out of step with other English-speaking countries in not having an SMS scam filter in place. This filter would operate like the spam filters that are applied to email inboxes by detecting and blocking harmful links or content.

Key advice for consumers:

  • Do not click on links or reply to text messages looking for payment.
  • Remember toll operators, banks, delivery companies, utility providers and Government agencies will never send a text linking to a website that asks for your online banking details or full card details.
  • Check the identity of the sender. Call the company in question using their legitimate phone number.

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Unfortunately fraudsters see the Christmas holidays as an opportunity to exploit the consumer rush to get all the festive shopping done, and at this time of the year Bank of Ireland’s fraud team always sees a wide range of “smishing” scams impersonating well-known companies.”

“Our advice to consumers remains the same, keep your guard up and treat every unsolicited call, text, or email as a potential fraud attempt. Our dedicated fraud team is working around the clock, even over Christmas and into the New Year, to protect and support our customers. If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and contact us straight away.

“Ireland is out of step with other English-speaking countries in not having an SMS scam filter, leaving Irish consumers more exposed to fraud attempts. We would strongly support the introduction of an SMS scam filter in Ireland, which requires legislation, as it would help block many of these fake text messages.”

Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7 on the Freephone line 1800 946 764.

Irish consumers 6x more likely to be scammed by falling for AI fakes

The scale and sophistication of fraudulent advertising and AI-generated scams on social media are growing rapidly, making it harder than ever for people to know what’s real. New research from Visa in Ireland reveals that people who mistake fake AI-generated content for real are six times more likely to be tricked by scammers online than those who don’t (73% vs. 12%). This highlights how digital misinformation directly increases vulnerability and underscores the importance of collective action to protect consumers and restore trust in digital platforms.
In Ireland, Visa found that people who are affected by online scams typically lose €124.50 per incident (median amount), costing the Irish economy an estimated €71.8 million annually. The impact goes beyond financial loss, causing emotional distress, increased anxiety and reduced productivity. On average, victims of online scams spend around 8.9 days resolving the issue – which is 44% of the working month.
The way people engage with content online plays a major role. Those who share a post without checking its accuracy first, are five times more likely to be targeted and impacted by online scams compared to those who tend to take a moment to verify it first (35% vs. 6%). Everyday online habits – such as skimming headlines, resharing without verifying and trusting AI-generated content – are creating new vulnerabilities that scammers are quick to exploit:
  • 59% have believed online content was genuine only to later discover it was an AI-generated fake
  • Over a third (38%) rarely read beyond a headline before forming an opinion
  • Almost a quarter (23%) have reshared a post without checking its accuracy
The ripple effect of online scams
As online scams grow more sophisticated and widespread, this shift in consumer behaviour is having a tangible impact on the wider economy. Almost half (42%) have changed how they shop online after being scammed and one in two people (50%) targeted by online shopping scams say they now avoid shopping with smaller or unfamiliar brands.
This is having a particularly significant impact on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which account for 99.8% of Ireland’s business population and depend heavily on consumer confidence to survive and grow2.
Stepping up the fight against fraud
Visa is stepping up the fight against social media scams – combining decades of experience with cutting-edge technology and working closely with banks, retailers, and digital platforms to restore trust in online commerce.
AI has been central to Visa’s approach to fraud prevention. For over 30 years, the company has used AI powered tools to help keep payments secure and stay ahead of evolving threats. In the last five years alone, Visa has invested $12 billion in technology, including building smart, AI-powered systems that detect suspicious behaviour in real time and stop scams before they reach people.
Awareness is as critical as technology. With almost two in five (39%) people believing AI will make scams harder to spot on social media, Visa is taking proactive steps to close that gap. Tackling fraud requires a united front, and Visa is committed to collaborating across the ecosystem to set new standards for consumer protection.
By working closely with banks, retailers and platforms to ensure consumers have the right advice at their fingertips, Visa is helping people recognise an AI-generated scam, understand how they work, and stay safe in an increasingly AI-driven digital world. Because the more informed people are, the harder it is for scammers to succeed.
Visa is calling on all stakeholders – platforms, banks, retailers and policymakers – to work together to raise the bar for digital trust and consumer protection.
Conor Langford, Visa Country Manager for Ireland said: “AI is transforming how we live, shop, work and connect, but it’s also reshaping the landscape for fraud. Scammers are using the same technology that brings us innovation to deceive and exploit consumers, blurring the line between real and fake. These scams can hurt real people, costing not just money but peace of mind and trust. At Visa, we’re investing in AI-driven fraud prevention and working hand-in-hand with our partners across the ecosystem to strengthen digital trust. The more informed people are, the safer our digital economy becomes. Together, we can build a more secure digital future for everyone.”
Elaine Burke, Tech journalist & host of the For Tech Sake podcast, warns: “It’s becoming increasingly difficult for people to be certain of what’s real and what’s not online. Social media feeds are flooded with content generated using AI, which is not always disclosed. This same generative AI has made it easier for scammers to create content that looks completely convincing and blends into feeds where AI slop has become the norm. Scammers can even selectively target those who interact with this type of content, knowing they are more likely to engage with it. That’s why education and awareness are so important. The more aware you are of scammers’ methods, the less likely you are to become their next success story.”
Spot the Scam: Five Smart Ways to Stay Safe on Social Media
Question the source
Scammers often mimic legitimacy with fake business pages, slick ads, AI-generated celebrity endorsements, and convincing personal messages. These tactics can look incredibly real. Before you click, pause and ask: Is this trustworthy? A moment of doubt can save you from a costly mistake.
Take a breath
Urgency is a scammer’s best friend. Promises of free gifts, massive discounts, or “limited-time” offers are designed to rush your decision. Instead, slow down. Check if the offer is realistic, research the company, read reviews and visit the official brand website before sharing any personal information.
Verify the sender – not just the profile
A message from a friend, influencer, or organisation asking for money or personal details? Don’t assume it’s legit. Confirm independently: call the person, use a verified website, or contact the business directly. Scammers often hijack real accounts to appear authentic.
Stay secure and report suspicious activity
Protect your accounts by turning on extra security features like two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible. Keep your apps and devices updated and regularly review your privacy settings. If you spot a suspicious ad, post or account, report it to the social platform – and to your bank if money is involved.
Pay securely – or not at all
Never share your bank details over social media. If someone asks you to send money via bank transfer, it’s likely a scam. Always use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection. If that’s not an option, walk away.
For more information on how to pay safely, please visit: www.visa.ie/pay-safely-with-visa.html

Irish Shoppers Favour Trusted Websites Over Social Media

Consumers in Ireland are gearing up for one of the biggest online shopping weekends of the year, with 55% planning to make a purchase during Black Friday or Cyber Monday, according to a new survey from .ie (Ireland’s national domain registry), conducted by Core Research. The survey reveals that while social selling continues to grow, trust and security remain key factors in how and where people choose to shop.
The research shows that more than half (51%) of consumers are likely to make an impulse purchase during the sales, driven by price, convenience and speed.
Electronics (68%) and clothing (58%) top the shopping list, with younger shoppers most likely to buy on impulse.
While consumers are motivated by bargains, trust and security are becoming decisive factors in where they spend. The research found that 58% of shoppers are more likely to buy from a retailer with a .ie domain, citing stronger trust, security, and a desire to support Irish businesses  as key reasons.
David Curtin, Chief Executive of .ie, comments,
“Irish consumers love a good deal, but they also value reassurance. Even the most impulsive shopper wants to know who’s behind the offer and that the business is genuine. A .ie web address signals that there is a connection to Ireland, offering transparency and accountability”
The findings come as awareness of online risks continues to grow. Three in four consumers (76%) believe websites offer stronger protection than social media platforms, while phishing is viewed as the most common scam method (73%).
Over 7 in 10 say phishing is the most common way scams occur. Almost six in ten believe social media is where scams are likely to occur when shopping online. The majority are concerned about online scams. Over 1 in 5 have been a victim of scam. Customer reviews and Google search are the two most common safety checks. More than 3 in 4 think shopping on a website is safer than shopping via a social media platform.
One in five people in Ireland have already lost money to an online scam, with an average loss of €401.
When choosing where to shop, delivery speed ranks as the third most important factor, after price and quality. Faster delivery within Ireland motivates 61% of shoppers to choose .ie sites, while 45% cite domain trust and 33% cite security as key drivers.
.ie’s Five Smart Steps for Safer Black Friday Shopping
  1. Read customer reviews and search the company name online
  2. Watch for unrealistic discounts that appear out of nowhere
  3. Ensure the web address starts with https
  4. Check for the .ie domain to confirm the business has a connection to Ireland
  5. If in doubt – don’t buy
With peak sales pressures and increasingly sophisticated scams, .ie is encouraging shoppers to think smart, shop secure, and keep their money local by supporting trusted Irish retailers. and as I always say STOP THINK CHECK and if in doubt give me a shout on any of my social media.

ESET Updates Its Home Security Portfolio for Advanced Ransomware and Scams

ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, today announces its upgraded consumer offering, ESET HOME Security and its Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) offering, ESET Small Business Security. Launched earlier in 2025 for businesses and enterprises, today’s release makes ESET’s award-winning Ransomware Remediation feature available to consumers and SOHOs. ESET Ransomware Remediation seamlessly creates encrypted backups – enabling users to detect, block, and recover from ransomware attacks with minimal disruption.

Recognizing scams as a global threat that can harm virtually anyone, anywhere, at any time, ESET now delivers enhanced scam protection, addressing attacks vectoring from all types of sources, including SMS, email, phone calls, URLs, QR codes, malicious files, and more. ESET also launched advanced functionalities within existing features, including Microphone Monitor and Website Security Inspector.

“As a progressive digital life protection vendor, ESET carefully monitors the current threat landscape and develops its protection solutions accordingly,” said Viktória Ivanová, Vice President of Consumer and IoT Segment at ESET. “Heightened scam protection, added Ransomware Remediation, and multiple privacy protection improvements make both ESET consumer and SOHO offerings robust, all-in-one solutions for households and Small Office/Home Offices seeking reliable security that has low impact on performance and is easy to use.”

This launch expands the availability of ESET VPN to ESET HOME Security Premium users. The updated ESET HOME security management platform simplifies security management, making it easier for home admins to protect their families, and SOHO owners to observe exactly who and what are protected, and to distribute security apps with a consistent, simplified experience.

Key ESET HOME Security/ ESET Small Business Security (for Windows) improvements include:

Ransomware Remediation — Originally developed for large businesses, Ransomware Remediation minimizes the impact of ransomware attacks. Once a potential ransomware threat is identified by ESET Ransomware Shield, ESET Ransomware Remediation immediately creates backups of affected files, and after the threat is mitigated, it restores the files, effectively reverting the system to its previous state.

 Enhanced privacy protection — New Microphone Monitor detects and alerts users to any unauthorized attempts to access the microphone hardware on Windows devices.

 Enhanced browser security — New Website Security Inspector adds an extra layer of protection against phishing, scams, and malicious websites. This feature scans the rendered HTML in the browser to detect malicious content that can’t be detected on the network level and by URLs blacklist.

New ESET Cyber Security/ ESET Small Business Security (for macOS) features and updates:

macOS 26 Tahoe support — User can enjoy ESET Cyber Security on the latest version of macOS.

HTTPS & HTTP/3 support — Improves overall end-user protection when online.

Device Control — This feature monitors and manages external devices connected to the Mac. It helps protect against malware and unauthorized transfers of data by restricting access to specific device types or even individual devices.

ESET HOME Security and ESET Small Business Security are available across all major operating systems—Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS—and cover all typical smart home devices. On top of that, ESET Small Business Security also protects Windows servers. The updated offerings are designed to address the evolving threat landscape with special attention to prevention – ensuring a best-in-class user experience because truly effective cybersecurity should be easy to set up and administer.

More information about ESET’s consumer offering and subscription tiers can be found here. A detailed description of the SOHO offering is available here.