Summer is over, routines are back, and for many, that means a return to the world of online dating. But with swipes and matches comes a growing risk: romance fraud.
Fraudsters are no longer just hiding behind stock images or stolen selfies. Increasingly, they’re using slick digital tricks from manipulated images to eerily convincing videos and even cloned voices to make themselves appear real. The aim is simple: build trust, exploit emotions, and walk away with hard-earned money.
According to Garda figures, 245 people have reported romance fraud since 2020, with average losses of approximately €28,500, adding up to well over €7 million stolen in total. In some of the most extreme cases, a woman lost over €450,000 across 18 separate transactions, while a man was defrauded of more than €380,000.
“Romance scams are different from other types of fraud because they’re built on emotional manipulation,” says George Foley of ESET Ireland. “People don’t just lose money; they lose trust, dignity, and often confidence in their relationships. The technology criminals are now using makes these scams even harder to spot, which is why awareness is vital.”
He explains that many victims only realise what has happened when it is far too late, because the scams are designed to feel real and to build trust over time. With more people expected to turn back to dating apps this autumn, he warns that the risk is only going to grow.
Seven in ten social media users do not trust social media companies to protect them from fraud and nearly three-quarters (73%) distrust the ads they see on these platforms. Research commissioned by Bank of Ireland for its latest fraud awareness campaign also reveals that 91% believe social media firms should be banned from profiting off fraudulent ads, while 90% say that financial service advertisers on social media should be required to prove their legitimacy.
Bank of Ireland is also issuing a warning about ‘pump and dump’ WhatsApp investment scams. Fraudsters lure victims via fake social media ads to join an investment WhatsApp group. Posing as a financial investment expert, the fraudster then spreads misleading information to group members about particular companies/stocks. Group members then buy the stock, the price is pumped up due to the increased demand and when the price peaks, the scammers sell (dump) their holdings at a profit, and disappear.
Bank of Ireland fraud research (conducted by Red C, August 2025) reveals:
83% of consumers believe that fraud is a big problem in society today
76% say that the risk of fraud scams makes them wary when they shop online
69% of social media users don’t trust social media companies to protect users from fraud
73% of those who use social media now don’t trust adverts on social media
86% of those seeing fraudulent content on social media platforms saw it on Meta platforms
91% feel social media companies shouldn’t be allowed generate revenue from fraudsters placing ads on their platforms
90% feel that companies that advertise financial services on social media platforms should have to prove that the ads are genuine and the company is registered with the Central Bank of Ireland
Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Social media platforms have become a lucrative hunting ground for fraudsters and consumers are paying the price while technology giants gain revenue. As we launch our new fraud awareness campaign highlighting scams originating via social media, a new spate of ‘pump and dump’ investment fraud is spreading fast, mainly using WhatsApp.
‘With results from the Latest REC C survey, seven in ten consumers now distrusting social media companies to shield them from fraud, and over 90% demanding an end to platforms profiting from scam ads, the message is clear – the public wants protection. It’s time for increased accountability, not just algorithms’
Bank of Ireland’s new fraud awareness campaign launches with the theme ‘Not all social is social’, highlighting the threat of fraud originating via social media platforms. The Bank’s consumer and business fraud education campaign for 2025 focuses on key fraud themes: Investment scams, CEO fraud, invoice redirection, smishing and fake online purchases. The digitally-led media campaign provides actionable advice from Bank of Ireland’s fraud prevention experts and international cyberpsychologist, Professor Mary Aiken, to protect customers’ financial wellbeing.
Through extensive public affairs and PR activity, the Bank has been campaigning for a change in legislation to better protect consumers from fraud originating on social media channels.
Professor Mary Aiken said: “Fraud online is now an industrialised, platform-enabled phenomenon. Scammers leverage the same targeting and engagement tools legitimate advertisers use; the difference is that families and businesses bear the cost.
“Bank of Ireland’s findings, which show that seven in ten users distrust platform protection and over 90% want an end to profits from scam ads, reveal an overwhelming public appetite for reform. ‘Not all social is social’, much of it is commercial, algorithmic and adversarial. The solution is safety by design, verifying financial advertisers, building friction and warnings into investment journeys, and enforcing clear accountability when systems enable harm. If platforms can target us to buy, they can target protections to keep us safe.”
Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can try to stop the fraud and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7 on the Freephone line 1800 946 764.
Cryptocurrency use in Ireland has grown quickly, offering both a flexible payment option and an alternative investment. However, with crypto, users are fully responsible for protecting their assets. There are no banks to reverse fraud or recover lost keys. Security depends on the device used, the apps chosen, and daily habits. For anyone in Ireland using crypto, staying secure is essential.
Using Secure Devices for Crypto Transactions
A secure device is the foundation of any safe crypto setup. For Irish users, this usually means a personal smartphone or laptop that’s regularly updated and well-maintained. Operating system updates patch security flaws, while antivirus software and a firewall help block threats. These tools should always run in the background, with auto-updates enabled.
Public Wi-Fi, common in cafés or during commutes, poses risks since data can be intercepted. A virtual private network (VPN) adds encryption and helps protect sensitive activity. Ideally, crypto transactions should be carried out on a home network using a clean, trusted device.
Some users take this further by setting up a separate phone or computer solely for crypto use. After a factory reset, the device runs only essential apps and stays offline unless needed. This approach adds another layer of protection, especially when making crypto payments on entertainment platforms such as online casinos, where safeguarding wallet access and private keys is essential for peace of mind.
Gambling expert Viola D’Elia from ESI notes that top no-verification platforms take security and anonymity to another level. These sites don’t require players to provide sensitive personal or financial details. Instead, registration typically involves just an email address, a username, and a password. This low-barrier setup enhances anonymity while still offering access to thousands of provably fair games and enabling near-instant, secure payouts through a wide range of cryptocurrencies. By combining strong device protection, smart internet practices, and a mindset focused on privacy, users can confidently navigate the crypto space while keeping their assets safe and their identity protected.
Choosing Trustworthy Crypto Wallets
In Ireland, users can choose from mobile, desktop, hardware, and browser-based crypto wallets, each offering a different trade-off between convenience and security. Mobile wallets are quick and useful for small transactions, but can be compromised if a phone is lost. Desktop wallets provide more features but still operate online, making them vulnerable. Hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor keep private keys offline and are widely regarded as the most secure option. Though they require an upfront cost, they offer strong protection by staying disconnected except during transactions. Browser-based wallets are convenient but require caution; always verify site legitimacy and avoid entering sensitive details unless sure of the source. Whenever possible, users should use wallets that grant full control of private keys, as custodial options limit personal ownership.
Protecting Passwords and Enabling Two-Factor Authentication
One weak password can result in the complete loss of assets. That’s why password hygiene matters. Avoid using the same login details across multiple platforms. Irish users should rely on reputable password managers to create and store strong, unique passwords. This makes it harder for hackers to guess or brute-force access to crypto accounts.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is also essential. Instead of relying solely on a password, users receive a second confirmation code before gaining access. SMS-based codes can work, but they are more vulnerable to SIM swap attacks. A more secure method is to use an authenticator app, like Google Authenticator or Authy. These apps generate time-sensitive codes and cannot be intercepted in the same way.
For higher-value accounts, physical security keys such as YubiKey can take authentication even further. In these cases, an attacker would need the physical device in addition to knowing the password. Adding these extra steps might feel inconvenient at first, but they significantly reduce the risk of losing access or having accounts compromised.
Securing Seed Phrases and Backup Systems
The most important part of any wallet setup is the seed phrase, a sequence of words that can recover the entire wallet. In Ireland and beyond, many have lost life-changing amounts by storing it on phones, computers, or cloud services.
Never save a seed phrase digitally. Instead, write it down by hand and store it in a fireproof safe or another secure place only you or trusted individuals can access. Metal backups are also reliable, offering durability against fire or water damage. Ideally, keep copies in two or more locations to reduce risk.
It’s smart to test recovery now and then. Setting up a secondary device and restoring from the phrase, without moving funds, ensures it works and that no words are missing or incorrect.
Avoiding Common Scams and Phishing Attempts
As Ireland’s crypto scene grows, so does the risk of scams, phishing being one of the most common. Fake websites, emails, or apps mimic trusted services to steal passwords or seed phrases.
Always check URLs carefully when accessing wallets or exchanges. Bookmark the official site and avoid clicking on urgent messages like “Your account will be locked.” Never open links or files from unknown emails or social media messages.
Social engineering is also a concern, with scammers posing as support staff or influencers. No legitimate service will ever ask for your private key or seed phrase. If they do, it’s likely a scam.
Conclusion
Crypto security in Ireland starts with personal responsibility. Whether managing €100 or €100,000, the same principles apply. Using secure devices, strong passwords, private wallets, and reliable backups helps protect against common threats. Staying alert to phishing and using only registered platforms ensures safer transactions. With steady habits and awareness, crypto can remain a secure part of your financial toolkit.
Gaming has evolved into more than just a way to pass the time. It is how people relax, connect, and even compete in competitive online tournaments. The thrill of online gaming can quickly fade when safety is not given the attention it deserves.
From identity theft to scams and shady downloads, the risks are real. One lesser-known issue that has become increasingly common involves players being caught out on platforms that promise rewards but require excessive personal information.
1. Avoid Unofficial Game Downloads
Some of the best protection starts with knowing where and how to play responsibly. iGaming analyst Caroline points out that no verification casinos appeal to many users, not only for ease of access but also for their emphasis on privacy. By removing the need to upload personal documents, these platforms reduce the risk of sensitive data falling into the wrong hands. Built on decentralised systems and often operating with cryptocurrency, they offer a layer of anonymity that many players appreciate.
Beyond privacy, the benefits include quicker sign-ups, faster withdrawals, and generous bonuses such as welcome rewards, cashback, and free spins. These casinos remain licensed and regulated, giving players the freedom to enjoy thousands of games without compromising on trust or security.
By sticking to official sources and trusted platforms, players can enjoy the best that online gaming has to offer. This approach supports a safer, more reliable experience every time you pick up a controller, try a new platform, or join a server. Unofficial downloads, especially mods or game files from unverified sources, may seem tempting, but they often come with hidden malware or spyware that can disrupt both gameplay and privacy. Staying with legitimate distribution platforms remains the smartest move.
2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
Using the same password on several gaming platforms can compromise the security of several accounts. Attackers can attempt to reuse the same information if one account is compromised. Strong, one-of-a-kind passwords are important.
A simple password manager can assist users when creating and safely storing complex password combinations, eliminating the need to remember them all. Users can keep their accounts secure while monitoring for any suspicious logins or devices and changing your credentials as soon as something seems suspicious.
3. Safeguard Your Data
Joining new platforms, creating profiles, and interacting with other players during live sessions are all common aspects of gaming. Although they may appear innocuous, information such as your pet’s name, birthday, or even the school you attended might be used to guess passwords or solve security questions.
The risk increases when users use identical login details across multiple accounts. Take into account all of the information you are sharing when creating a profile. Choose a moniker that doesn’t include your name, and avoid sharing intimate photos online. Consider the consequences of making that information public and ask why a platform is asking for more information than appears necessary.
4. Beware of Phishing Scams
Scams targeting gamers have become more sophisticated. These scams may seem as emails saying you have won something or messages posing as support representatives requesting that you confirm your account. These phishing attempts often look very real.
Always check the email address or message source. The majority of official communications originate from domain-verified sources. Never use a URL you do not completely trust to enter your password or personal information.
5. Secure Your Devices
To play games safely, you must keep your device protected. Use reliable antivirus software and ensure it is up to date to safeguard against threats that frequently infiltrate through antiquated systems. Safety problems can be fixed before becoming vulnerable by activating automatic updates for your computer’s operating system and antivirus program.
It is also worthwhile to utilise the integrated privacy features. Firewalls and parental controls help limit unwanted contact and restrict risky content, especially on shared systems. Pay attention to third-party programs, such as Discord, and frequently check permissions. Additional safeguards can stop future issues before they arise.
6. Only Use Reputable Servers and Communities
Multiplayer games rely on fan-run communities or user-hosted servers; some are designed, but others lack the framework to fully protect players. Reputable servers typically have moderators who are actively involved, enforce rules, and communicate their code of conduct. In addition to having reporting options for users to flag issues, these places are made to limit toxic behaviour, cheating, and fraud.
If a server seems random, uses foul language, or allows users to act anyway they want without repercussions, it’s advisable to leave right away. Platforms that promote player safety should always be the first option.
7. Stay Up to Date
Patching and updates might seem annoying, especially when they interrupt a session, but they serve an important purpose. Developers release them to fix bugs, improve performance, and close security gaps. Ignoring updates can leave your system exposed to known threats. Check for updates regularly and install them when available, including for your games, operating system, antivirus, and any chat or launcher tools. Gaming safety doesn’t have to be difficult, and with a few simple habits, you can protect your information, devices, and overall experience.
Bank of Ireland is warning customers about a dramatic increase this week in reports and cases of an attempted ‘safe account’ scam. Customers should be on particular alert for fraudulent texts that attempt to lure them into to calling a fake ‘bank’ phoneline – where the account holder is then duped into transferring funds to their secondary account, in most cases Revolut, and in turn a ‘safe account’, which is controlled by a fraudster.
Reports of the scam to Bank of Ireland’s fraud line and Text Checker service have been on the increase since the start of the year and this week have shown an alarming increase, with daily reports this week over 10 times the number of those reported weekly in April and May.
How it works:
Customer gets a text message to their phone, requesting that they call a phone number about a suspicious transaction/or activity.
The texts claim to be from Bank of Ireland and can drop into the thread of a genuine BOI text: “Did you login from a new device?”; “Do you recognise this transaction?”; or “A transaction for [value] to [merchant] was declined and your card has been placed on hold“ – followed by “if this was not you / if you don’t recognise this / etc. please call us back on [callback phone number].
Callback numbers are usually landline numbers including 01 / 1800 / regional codes.
The callback number will be answered by someone claiming to be from Bank of Ireland, and that there has been suspicious transactions and the customer’s account is compromised.
The victim is then asked if they have a Revolut / or other secondary account. If they say yes, they are told that they should move all the money in their BOI account into their own Revolut account/ or secondary account. The fraudster doesn’t ask for access to the customer’s account, and do not ask for any security details like PIN’s or codes – avoiding common ‘red flags’ associated with fraud.
The victim is then told they then need to move their money from their Revolut account to a new ‘safe’ account.
Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “We have been seeing a concerning pattern in the increase of this type of fraud. This week’s escalation has resulted in the highest number of reports in a single day of this particular type of fraud, so we need our customers and the general public to be vigilant and recognise the warning signs. Our main advice is to look out for these texts and do not call back. And remember that Bank of Ireland will never ask you to move your money to another account to keep it safe. If you think you have been a victim of fraud, call the bank’s fraud team immediately on the 24/7 freephone line 1800 946 764”.
What Bank of Ireland customers can do
If in doubt, call your trusted numbers, phone number on back of your physical card or from phone contact details in your mobile App.
Sample fraudulent text messages: or search site more videos and more samples we provided with scams
Coimisiún na Meán, has announced the decision to grant Trusted Flagger status to the Central Bank of Ireland. Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), Coimisiún na Meán as the Digital Services Coordinator in Ireland has the power to award Trusted Flagger status to entities established in Ireland who meet certain conditions.
Trusted Flaggers are empowered to identify, detect and notify illegal content within their area of expertise to online platforms. Providers of online platforms are then legally obliged to ensure that notices of the presence of illegal content, reported by Trusted Flaggers are given priority and decided upon without undue delay.
Speaking about the announcement, Digital Services Commissioner, John Evans said: “Coimisiún na Meán is committed to ensuring a media landscape that consumers can trust, and where they are protected from exploitation and fraud. We recognise that financial scams and fraud are a concern to the Irish public, and we welcome the Central Bank of Ireland’s expertise in this area. By granting the Central Bank of Ireland Trusted Flagger Status, we are legally obliging online platforms to ensure that any illegal online content reported by the Central Bank of Ireland, such as financial scams and fraud are prioritised by the platform and dealt with in a timely manner.”
“The Trusted Flagger status is a new statutory mechanism that offers empowerment for organisations by placing obligations on the platforms to give priority to Trusted Flagger notifications. Entities awarded Trusted Flagger status are recognised as such across the EU. Trusted Flaggers will also feed into Coimisiún na Meán’s identification of trends and issues via annual reports which will be instrumental in establishing an informed, evidence-based approach to our platform supervisory activities.”
Meanwhile, Gabriel Makhlouf, Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, said: “The Central Bank of Ireland is delighted to be the first organisation in the country to be granted Trusted Flagger Status by Coimisiún na Meán. This accreditation marks another milestone in the Bank’s commitment to protecting consumers and strengthens our efforts to disrupt the activities of unauthorised providers of regulated financial services. We look forward to continuing our work to strengthen the framework of consumer protection in Ireland through this new status.”
Under Article 22 of the DSA, Trusted Flagger status can be granted to entities who meet the following conditions:
• It has particular expertise and competence for the purposes of detecting, identifying and notifying illegal content;
• It is independent from any provider of online platforms;
• It carries out its activities for the purposes of submitting notices diligently, accurately and objectively.
The Central Bank of Ireland have been granted the Trusted Flagger status for three years, from 2 April 2025 to 2 April 2028. Their designated area of expertise is financial scams and fraud, including the provision and/or offer of financial services without authorisation. Upon the expiry of the accreditation period the Trusted Flagger status is reassessed and, where appropriate, re-granted.
Further information on the role of Trusted Flaggers and the obligations of online platforms in respect of notices issued by Trusted Flaggers can be found on our dedicated Trusted Flaggers page on the website.
This April 1st, Bank of Ireland is warning customers that fraudsters don’t just try to fool you for one day, they are always active and financial fraud can lead to devastating loss of income and savings. The Bank is reminding customers about the top ten fraud types currently reported to its 24/7 fraud team.
According to Bank of Ireland’s fraud reporting data, the most concerning fraud type being used to target customers is investment scams, with smishing texts and vishing calls following closely behind. Further down the list, yet becoming more prevalent, are malware attacks where fraudsters gain access to customers’ devices and access private information, including their banking app.
The 10 most commonly reported frauds are:
Investment scams – promising higher returns on investments that don’t exist.
Smishing texts – scam texts claiming to be from delivery companies and other providers urging you to pay outstanding charges or update account details.
Vishing calls – fraudsters pretend to be from your bank, saying your account has been compromised and they need to move your money to a ‘safe account’.
Purchase scams – fake adverts on genuine websites and social media platforms that promise a slashed price or bargain.
Romance scams – fraudsters build relationships online to manipulate victims into sending them money.
Family impersonation – fake messages pretending to be from a family member who has lost their phone and needs access to money.
Rental and holiday scams – fraudsters trick people into paying rent for property that doesn’t exist or is not actually available to rent.
Money mules – criminals try to recruit people into receiving stolen money into their account, then transfer it to another account and keep some of the cash for themselves as ‘payment’.
Malware – harmful apps that ask for full control of your device allowing fraudsters to control your phone and access private information like your banking app.
Phishing emails – fraudsters send emails that look like they’re from legitimate companies, asking for personal information or login credentials.
Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Fraudsters don’t just try to fool you for one day, they never take a break and are always on. Our latest fraud reporting data shows that investment fraud is still the most concerning scam targeting our customers. The level of highly personalised targeting, with fraudsters promising higher returns on bogus schemes, continues to grow. Smishing texts and vishing attempts continue on a persistent basis. Fraudulent advertisements online and on social media have been the subject of regular warnings for some time and the trend is not going away. And some new types of fraud including accessing devices using malware are happening more often.
“All fraud types are serious criminal activity and there is no room for complacency. Being alert to the ‘red flags’ – including ‘too good to be true’ returns and pressure to act quickly – is vital.
“Bank of Ireland offers a 24/7 fraud telephone support for customers on1800 946 764, available every day of the year. We encourage our customers to put this number in their phone, so they have easy access to it if they ever need it.”
For detailed advice and information on how to stay safe from all types of financial fraud, visit the Security Zone on Bank of Ireland’s website.
Red flags of Investment Fraud:
Follow-up calls: You receive a call having clicked an investment product advert on social media or in a sponsored search result.
Higher/fast returns: They promise a quick and profitable return, with little or no risk.
Pressure: They advise you must act quickly to take advantage of an “opportunity of a lifetime”.
Celebrity Endorsements: Be wary where the investment is being endorsed by celebrities – they may not know their name is attached to the advertisement.
Secrecy: They say you’re not to discuss the “investment” with family, friends or your bank and they may instruct you to sign a “non-disclosure agreement” (NDA).
Remember, Bank of Ireland will never:
Send you a text or email with a link directly to the login page of our online banking channels asking you to confirm or update your banking details
Ask you to click a link in a message with an urgent warning about suspicious activity on your account
Ask you to transfer money out of your account to protect you from fraud
Ask you to send us back your bank card.
Don’t ever share:
Your full six-digit 365 PIN or Business On Line credentials
Any one-time activation codes or codes from your Business On Line Approve app
Your four-digit card PIN.
Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can try to stop the fraud and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7 on the Freephone line 1800 946 764.
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.
While the growth of online casinos has grown considerably in recent years, it’s important to be wary of which ones are legitimate and which ones are out there to scam people out of their money.
Is a casino app necessary when deciding the legitimacy of an online casino? Absolutely. Often enough, the most reputable online casinos will have an app that users can download to gamble on the go, wherever and whenever they may need to.
But aside from apps, how else can you spot a legitimate online casino? What are the red flags to look out for when it comes to illegitimate ones? This guide will look at the benefits of online casino apps and why they’re important for deciding legitimacy, as well as other things to look out for when assessing the legitimacy of a casino site.
Is a casino app necessary for the legitimacy of an online casino?
While some online casinos don’t have apps and are still legitimate, having one certainly boosts the trust and loyalty that new users have when browsing for online casino sites.
Anyone can create a website – or app for that matter – however there’s a lot more effort that goes into creating an app and making sure it operates exactly like its website counterpart.
Often enough, it’s easy to spot a scam app but not so much a scam site for online casinos. That’s why it’s always good practice to go with an online casino site that has an app as part of it’s features.
The benefits of casino apps to users
Whether you’re looking for the best casino apps for slots or for bingo, what are the benefits of using a casino app? How does it benefit the casino’s users?
Exclusive bonuses and promotions
With many casino apps, in order to incentivize their users to download and use the app, they offer exclusive bonuses and promotions. These are bonuses and promotions that are often more rewarding, or at the very least, not available on the website of the casino itself.
Easily accessible for on-the-go use
With a casino app, there’s a lot more accessibility to it because with a mobile phone, it’s easy to just pop into your pocket or handbag. For a desktop computer or laptop, it’s a lot more challenging to use on the go, especially for entertainment purposes.
With a smartphone, an app is a benefit because you can gamble anywhere you want, at any time. So that could be on your commute into work, or perhaps during an ad break while watching your favorite television series.
Improved graphics and gameplay
With a lot of smartphones, the mobile graphics tend to be a lot more high-tech, especially if you’re getting one of the latest mobile phones to come out on the market. Some mobile phones are more geared towards gameplay too, making the apps stand out more, both the visual and audible experience that users get.
More games and a wider range of games
A casino app is helpful to have in order to provide more experiences for the user. Alongside making it a legitimate experience, having more games and a wider range of games is helpful to improve the gameplay experience for users both old and new.
5 red flags to spot when looking for illegitimate online casino sites
What are some of the red flags to spot when you’re on a casino site? While there are many casinos that come with apps, not all of them will be legitimate, so it’s good to spot the warning signs that might encourage you to not deposit your money and spend on the site.
1. Too good to be true bonuses and promotions
As mentioned above, one of the appeals to downloading a casino app is the exclusive bonuses and promotions it offers to new users and existing ones of the desktop version.
However, one thing to be mindful of when it comes to both playing via the app and on the site itself, is how authentic these bonuses and promotions are. If the bonus or promotion seems a little too good to be true, or guarantees a certain amount of winnings, then it might be a scam.
It’s always worth it in this case, to draw some comparisons from other sites to see just how legitimate the bonus or promotional offer is.
2. Missing licensing information
In order for any legitimate casino site to exist and operate as a gambling site, it needs to have the correct licensing information.
Legitimate sites will proudly display their licensing details, a lot of the time on multiple pages and clearly so that you can spot it almost immediately. Any rogue casinos will tend to bury the information or fake it with logos that don’t look quite right.
3. Delayed or denied withdrawals
When you’ve banked some winnings or you’re looking to withdraw what you might no longer want to use for gambling, typically the withdrawal process will be quick. As such, you often get your payouts within twenty-four to a few days depending on the casino itself.
However, the casinos that are illegitimate, might delay the withdrawals or deny them completely.
4. A lack of customer support
Always be wary of the quality of customer support you’re getting when it comes to the online casino. If the support is lacking, then this is often telling that they might not have enough support on hand, or that they’re operating illegally or with scam intentions.
5. Negative player reviews or scam reports
Finally and perhaps the most telling one when deciding on the legitimacy of a site is the number of negative reviews or scam reports being made about the site. Always look at review sites to get a realistic idea of just how authentic or inauthentic the site might be. Scam reports are certainly ones to take seriously.
A casino app is a great way to validate the authenticity of an online casino site. However, it’s always good to be wary of the red flags that might have you stepping away from the site and putting your wallet away.
