Tag: season

NBI and GAA+ partner to reward broadband customers with streamed championship games

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) on behalf of the Government, has announced an exciting new partnership with GAA+, the GAA’s live and on-demand streaming platform.

GAA+ is offering a schedule of c.40 exclusive games for the Championship 2026 season and those new customers ordering a broadband service on the NBI network before 31st March can receive an annual subscription pass valued at €95.

By combining next‑generation broadband infrastructure with modern sports broadcasting, the reward highlights how digital connectivity can bring local sporting moments to audiences right across rural Ireland and the GAA heartland.

Jarlath Burns, GAA President, expressed his excitement at the launch of this partnership: “The GAA is rooted in every community in Ireland, regardless of its urban or rural setting. Making GAA+ as accessible and enjoyable as possible remains a consistent aim and this new partnership with National Broadband Ireland clearly speaks to that ambition.”

“Our platform will once again provide a comprehensive live and exclusive broadcast schedule to supporters across web, connected TVs and apps throughout the Championship from Saturday, April 11th. Working closely with National Broadband Ireland will ensure thousands of our members can avail of enhanced connectivity in their area and look forward to coverage from Provincial Championship and All-Ireland series stages on any connected device in the comfort of their own home.”

The partnership forms part of NBI’s wider efforts to enhance end user experience and highlight the everyday benefits that high‑speed broadband can bring to households and communities.

Speaking of the announcement T.J. Malone, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland: “We are very proud to announce our partnership with GAA+ considering that both organisations have such a strong focus on community. NBI’s rollout of high‑speed broadband infrastructure into rural areas is creating new opportunities for families, clubs and supporters to stay connected – whether that is working, learning or watching their county team compete.”

“We see our partnership with GAA+ as a great way to support broadband take-up by giving new customers that order before the end of March, access to 40 exclusive streamed games.” Mr. Malone concluded: “We also believe watching the GAA+ games over the NBI network will enhance the streaming experience.”

More than 451,000 premises across Ireland can now order fibre broadband on the NBI network, with over 165,000 already having done so.

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.

Apple adds six new Zens chargers for the holiday season

Zens, the market leader in wireless charging, strengthens its partnership with Apple this holiday season with six new products. Building on the success of the Quattro Charger Pro 4 and 4-1 Wireless Charger, Zens continues to combine innovation, design, and ease of use in a way that resonates with Apple users worldwide.

In close collaboration with Apple, Zens introduces two innovative Charging Cables and a next-generation Magnetic Nightstand Charger, available globally via Apple and on zens.tech.

“We’re proud to expand our collaboration with Apple and introduce a gift collection that’s interesting for a broad audience,” says Johan Plasmans, CEO of Zens. “These are everyday practical essentials: beautifully designed, and made to fit right into the Apple experience. With a price range between €50 and €100, and available in clean white/silver or dark cherry, there’s something for everyone this holiday season.”

The gift collection includes:

Zens Charging Cable USB-C-C Pro 2: Designed to power your MacBook or iPad via USB-C while wirelessly charging your iPhone or AirPods at the same time. Ideal for daily use and a great gift for multitaskers who want fewer cables and more freedom.
Zens Charging Cable USB-C-C Pro 3: Foldable, compact, and travel-ready, this cable charges your MacBook or iPad via USB-C, iPhone or AirPods, and Apple Watch simultaneously. Made for Apple users who have it all.
Zens Magnetic Nightstand Charger: Next-generation bedside essential. With USB-C, braided cable and Apple StandBy support, it turns your iPhone into a smart alarm clock. A perfect gift for anyone with an iPhone 12 or newer.

All products are available from today via apple.com, in select Apple Stores worldwide, and as a pre-order on zens.tech (shipping end of November).

See our zens reviews 

 

Emerald Reels: The Most Popular Slot Themes Captivating Irish Players

Ireland’s love affair with slot machines continues to flourish, blending centuries of tradition with cutting-edge gaming innovation. From Dublin’s buzzing betting shops to the sleek interfaces of mobile apps, Irish players are drawn to slot themes that reflect both their cultural heritage and a growing appetite for international adventure. Below is a deeper look at the motifs lighting up the Emerald Isle’s reels—and why they keep players coming back for more.

1. Celtic Legends and Mythology

No theme resonates more strongly in Ireland than the country’s own folklore. Slots featuring leprechauns, four-leaf clovers, and pots of gold remain perennial favorites, but the appeal goes far beyond lucky charms. Games inspired by the Tuatha Dé Danann, fairy forts, and ancient druidic magic bring centuries-old stories to life with modern animation and immersive sound design. Players often say these games feel like a celebration of their heritage, where every spin is a nod to legends passed down through generations.

Why it works: The combination of vibrant greens, harp-filled soundtracks, and mystical bonuses taps into a sense of national pride while providing the thrill of big payouts.

2. Irish Pub Nights and Music Sessions

Few experiences capture the Irish spirit better than an evening in a lively pub. Slot developers have turned that atmosphere into reels filled with frothy pints, fiddles, and dancing patrons. Many titles feature interactive music bonuses where players trigger reels that play traditional jigs or even let them “pour a pint” for extra rewards.

Why it works: These games recreate the warm conviviality of a night out without leaving the sofa. For players abroad, it’s a nostalgic reminder of home; for locals, it’s the perfect way to extend the fun after last call.

3. Sports and Horse Racing Fever

Sport is an integral part of Irish life, and that enthusiasm naturally spills into gaming. Slots themed around Gaelic football, hurling, and especially horse racing are wildly popular. With galloping horses, cheering crowds, and progressive jackpots that mimic the suspense of the track, these games give players an adrenaline rush akin to race day.

Why it works: The thrill of competition and the possibility of a big win align perfectly with the betting culture surrounding Irish sports. Seasonal tournaments tied to major sporting events keep these slots fresh year-round.

4. Ancient Civilizations and Global Adventures

While Irish pride is strong, curiosity about the wider world keeps players exploring. Slots that whisk them to the pyramids of Egypt, Viking longships, Aztec temples, or the treasures of the Orient remain consistent chart-toppers.

Why it works: These games blend history and escapism, offering rich graphics, treasure-hunt mechanics, and cinematic storytelling. They’re a perfect change of pace for players who love to travel—at least virtually—while chasing jackpots.

5. Modern Pop Culture and Branded Experiences

Ireland’s gamers, like those worldwide, can’t resist the pull of celebrity and media tie-ins. Online slots in Ireland at NetBet branded with hit TV shows, chart-topping music acts, and blockbuster films give players familiar characters and soundtracks alongside big potential payouts.

Why it works: Recognition. Players instantly understand the theme and feel a connection to the storylines and music they already enjoy. Seasonal updates—think Christmas specials or summer festivals—keep these games feeling current.

6. Seasonal and Holiday Themes

From St. Patrick’s Day extravaganzas to Halloween haunts and winter wonderlands, seasonal slots are a growing favorite. Developers release limited-time titles with unique bonuses and festive graphics, encouraging players to return throughout the year.

Why it works: The limited availability creates urgency, while the holiday spirit adds excitement and community—players often share their big wins on social media during these seasonal events.

The Winning Formula

What unites these diverse themes is their ability to blend nostalgia with novelty. Irish folklore connects players to their roots, while global adventures and pop culture keep the experience fresh. Advanced game mechanics—free spins, interactive bonus rounds, and high-definition graphics—enhance engagement, making every session feel like more than just a spin of the reels.

Final Spin

From shamrocks to sarcophagi, Irish pubs to Hollywood premieres, Ireland’s favorite slot themes mirror the country’s unique mix of tradition and modern curiosity. Whether a player is seeking the comfort of familiar legends or the excitement of an exotic quest, the Emerald Isle’s gaming market offers a reel for every taste. It’s proof that, when it comes to slot games, Irish players truly know how to keep the reels—and the stories—rolling in style.

 

Runners Urged To Follow These Tips If Using Strava Or Similar Apps

With marathon season in full swing and the London Marathon fast approaching, more runners are hitting the pavement, and many are turning to apps like Strava to track their progress, connect with fellow athletes, and stay motivated. While these platforms offer valuable insights and a strong sense of community, they also present potential privacy risks if not used carefully. Expert, Joerg Nottebaum from SportsMillions shares crucial insights on how runners can stay safe while using tracking apps.
“Apps like Strava are fantastic tools, but they can unintentionally expose runners to security threats if they don’t configure their privacy settings correctly. It’s essential to take simple precautions to protect your data while enjoying your training.”
To help runners stay secure, here are five crucial tips that can safeguard privacy while using Strava and similar apps:
1. Adjust Your Privacy Settings 
Most running apps, including Strava, offer privacy controls to limit who can see your activity. Enable features such as “Private Mode” or “Enhanced Privacy” to restrict visibility to approved followers.
“Many runners don’t realise that by default, their activity may be visible to anyone. A quick check of your privacy settings can significantly reduce potential risks.”
Additionally, consider hiding your start and end points to prevent revealing your home or workplace location.
2. Be Mindful of Route Sharing 
While it’s tempting to share your favourite running routes or personal bests online, doing so publicly may expose sensitive location data.
“Think twice before posting routes that start or end near your home. If someone is tracking your activity, they can easily figure out your daily patterns.”
Opt for generic or pre-set route names instead of personalised titles that disclose your location.
3. Use a Different Name or Alias 
Instead of displaying your full name on Strava or similar apps, consider using a nickname or initials. This simple step helps reduce the risk of strangers identifying you and finding personal details online.
“If you’re part of a running club or event, double-check your settings to ensure your participation isn’t visible to unknown users,” advises Nottebaum.
4. Limit Third-Party Integrations 
Many fitness apps sync with other platforms, such as social media and wearable devices. While this can enhance your training experience, it can also expose additional data.
“Limiting third-party connections helps you control where your data goes. The fewer platforms that have access to your running history, the better.”
Review which third-party apps have access to your data and disable unnecessary connections.
5. Be Cautious with Social Features 
Strava and similar apps encourage social engagement, allowing users to comment, give “kudos,” and join local running challenges. However, interacting with unknown users can pose risks.
“Be selective with follow requests and avoid sharing real-time activity in public groups. While running is a community-driven sport, safety should always come first.”
If you participate in virtual races or community runs, double-check that your data remains private.
Running apps like Strava are excellent tools for motivation and performance tracking, but staying mindful of privacy settings and data security is crucial. By following these simple yet effective tips, runners can enjoy their training while minimizing potential risks.
“As a runner, your focus should be on achieving your goals, not worrying about digital safety. Taking a few small steps to secure your data can make a world of difference.”
Apps, just like its users, should understand the importance of running safely both online and offline. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply enjoy casual runs, taking precautions ensures that your fitness journey remains enjoyable and secure. Stay smart, stay safe, and keep running strong!

SMARTY Mobile adds two new Winter offers for Christmas and beyond

Winter is coming. Or rather, Winter Offers are coming as SMARTY Mobile today announces they are adding two new offers to their existing 125GB for £12 seasonal deal. Save on stress over the festive period and beyond, with 180GB for £15 and 15GB for £7.

Everyone knows that January is definitely the longest month of the year, with most people having to stretch December’s pay from the 23rd December through to the end of January. Tight doesn’t even come close, when you add the temptations of the sales season and the burdens and time spent out and about during the festive period. SMARTY Mobile can help customers through this ‘stressmas’ season, by saving on their phone plan and that’s one less thing to worry about. And as the Winter Offers plans are available to purchase until mid-February, customers can navigate the New Year blues, saving rather than scrimping this January. Forget New Year New Me, try New Year New SIM.

 

SMARTY Mobile’s Winter Offers:

  • 180GB for £15: That’s all the Christmas films you could ever want ready to stream on your train ride home
  • 15GB for £7: Get started on your Spotify Wrapped for 2024 by streaming your favourite artists with this cost-effective offer
  • 125GB for £12: All the data you need to find the best bargains in sale season.

With SMARTY, customers can switch, pause or cancel at any time so they can ramp up or downgrade their data whenever they need to. And as Which? Recommended Provider of the Year for the third year running, the low-cost SIM-only mobile network offers the best value, all year round with no price rises, no contract and all on the flexibility of 1-month plans.

All SMARTY plans come with EU Roaming included up to 12GB – perfect for anyone after some winter sun or preparing to hit the slopes. On top of this, you get 5G as standard, and unlimited calls and texts.

SMARTY Mobile’s Winter Offers launched in December and are available for a limited time only. For more information and to sign up to SMARTY mobile, visit www.smarty.co.uk

Brits set to lose £800m to online shopping scams this festive season

Britons are being warned to stay alert this year with shopping scams expected to surge over the next two months during the festive season, which could cost the nation over £800 million. 

It comes as new research released today reveals that over 13 million Britons have been victim to an online shopping scam in the last year which has amounted to a loss of £1.4 billion. 

With over £800 million lost during the festive shopping season alone, cybersecurity experts are urging Brits to take measures to avoid losing cash to scammers as clothes, gifts and tech all top the list of popular scam buys. 

The research, conducted among 2,000 UK adults by Censuswide and commissioned by F-Secure, a global leader in cybersecurity, found that of those that had been scammed, those aged under 25 were hit the hardest financially, losing as much as £245 during the Christmas shopping period while two–fifths of 25-34 years old, more than any other age group, are most likely to fall victim to scam.

The research found the top 10 shopping scams are:

1. Fashion item 16%

2. Gifts 16%

3. Tech or IoT devices 15%

4. Beauty 13%

5. Food 13%

6. Sport gear 12%

7. Furniture or home dec 12%

8. Vehicles 12%

9. Travel 12%

10. Concert tickets / event tickets 11%

Further findings revealed men are slightly more likely to be scammed (28%) than women (21%).

The loss isn’t just hitting British pockets, the impact is also hitting the UK economy as the research revealed shopping scams are likely disproportionately affecting smaller retailers – which could force them out of business as more than half (56%) of Britons admit they now avoid shopping with small, independent online businesses, feeling more secure shopping with well-known brands.

However, the reality is that scams can occur with any sized retailer. Small independents accounted for 27% of the UK’s scams last year, only marginally more than large online platforms (such as Amazon and eBay) 23% and large retailers 21%. 

Tom Gaffney, F-Secure, said: “The next couple of months are the biggest shopping weeks of the year which we anticipate cybercriminals to try and take advantage of, particularly as the cost-of-living crisis may mean shoppers are looking for deals, but not necessarily safely. 

“We would urge everyone to be extra vigilant at this time of year and follow our tips before making any purchase online. Scams are becoming increasingly more difficult to spot but consumers can do very simple things to check they are safe when they’re shopping.”

With a quarter of online shoppers admitting they’re not confident they can spot a dodgy site, here are F-Secure’s top tips to stay safe when shopping online:

 

  • Use an online checker such as F-Secure’s ‘Online Shopping Checker’ to identify if a website is legitimate.

  • Always use a credit card where possible because you might stand a better chance of getting your money back with credit card cover.

  • If you’ve not heard of a site before, do your research, check social media and reviews – but be wary of too many five stars as fake reviews can be purchased.

  • If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Legitimate stores tend to offer competitively priced offers. If you encounter an online store with exceptionally low prices, pay extra attention to other potential indications of a scam

F-Secure’s new Online Shopping Checker allows shoppers to test any online store’s URL to confirm its legitimacy. The free tool detects the reliability of the store and shows trust ratings before making a purchase. The same technology is included as ‘Trusted Shopping’ in F-Secure’s Browsing Protection: F-Secure Online Shopping Checker | F-Secure

Games you’ll Love to Play This Festive Season!

The holiday season is a time for relaxation, fun, feast and spending time with loved ones. One way to do this is by playing mobile games. Mobile games are a great way to pass the time and have some fun, and there are so many different types to choose from that there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 mobile games to play this festive season:

Candy Crush: Candy Crush is a classic puzzle game that's perfect for the holiday season. In this game, you match candies to progress through levels and earn points. With over 2,000 levels and new ones added regularly, there's plenty of gameplay to keep you entertained for hours on end.

Pokémon Go: Pokémon Go is a popular augmented reality game that lets you catch virtual Pokémon in the real world. As you explore your surroundings, you’ll encounter different types of Pokémon and can catch them using Poké Balls. The game also has special events throughout the year, including holiday-themed events, so there’s always something new to do.

Mario Kart Tour: Mario Kart Tour is a mobile version of the popular Mario Kart franchise. In this game, you race against other players or computer-controlled characters in a variety of tracks inspired by the Mario franchise. The game also has special events and challenges, as well as different characters and karts to unlock.

Clash of Clans: Clash of Clans is a strategy game where you build a base, train troops, and attack other players bases. You can also join or create a clan and participate in clan wars. The game has a variety of troops, spells, and defenses to unlock and upgrade, providing plenty of depth and replayability.

Fortnite: Fortnite is a popular battle royale game where 100 players drop onto an island and fight to be the last one standing. The game also has a creative mode where you can build structures and create your own worlds. With regular updates and events, there’s always something new to do in Fortnite.

PUBG Mobile: PUBG Mobile is another popular battle royale game where players drop onto an island and fight to be the last one standing. The game has a variety of weapons and vehicles to use, as well as different modes to play in. PUBG Mobile also has regular updates and events to keep the gameplay fresh.

Minecraft: Minecraft is a sandbox game where you can build and explore worlds made of blocks. You can gather resources, craft items, and fight monsters in this endlessly replayable game. Minecraft also has a variety of different game modes,
including survival mode, creative mode, and multiplayer mode.

The Room: The Room is a puzzle game where you solve intricate mechanical puzzles to progress through the game. The game has beautiful graphics and a haunting atmosphere, making it a great game to play during the holiday season.

Monument Valley: Monument Valley is a puzzle game where you guide a character through Escher-like levels by manipulating the environment. The game has beautiful graphics and a calming soundtrack, making it a great game to play when you want to
relax.

Tetris: Tetris is a classic puzzle game where you rotate and place falling blocks to create lines and clear the board. With simple gameplay and endless replayability, Tetris is a great game to play during the holiday season.

Among Us: Among Us has exploded in popularity in recent months and for good reason. It’s a multiplayer game that tasks players with completing tasks on a spaceship while trying to figure out who the imposters are. The imposters are trying to sabotage the mission, and it’s up to the other players to figure out who they are and vote them off the ship. It’s a social, strategic game that’s great for parties or just playing with friends online.

Stardew Valley: Stardew Valley is a relaxing farming simulator that tasks you with turning an overgrown farm into a thriving agricultural business. You’ll need to plant and harvest crops, raise animals, and build relationships with the townspeople to succeed. It’s a great game for players who want a more laid-back experience and enjoy building and managing their own little slice of heaven.

Animal Crossing: Animal Crossing New Horizons is another relaxing game that puts you in charge of your own island paradise. You’ll need to build and decorate your home, catch fish and bugs, and interact with your animal neighbors to make your
island the best it can be. It's a great game for players who enjoy customization and building their own world.

The Room series: The Room series is a series of puzzle games that task you with solving intricate, intricate puzzles to progress. Each game in the series offers a  unique, immersive experience and will keep you hooked until the very end. If you
enjoy brain-teasers and challenging puzzles, these games are a must-play.

These are just a few of the many mobile games that you can play this holiday season. Whether you prefer puzzle games, strategy games, or action games, there’s a mobile game out there for you. So take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle and have some fun with these great mobile games. Loved this article? Check out
some amazing Christmas party ideas.

Esri maps festive events around Ireland this Christmas

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has created a digital map of some of the best Christmas festivals, light shows, and ice skating events happening across the country this holiday season.

Using Esri’s ArcGIS digital mapping system, the interactive map highlights a range of enchanting spectacles and festive activities to suit all ages. Experience the wonder of Christmas by immersing yourself in a winter wonderland; browsing market stalls, marvelling at the glittering lights, soaking up festive music, and gliding across ice-rinks.

From magical train rides in Donegal and family-friendly festivals in Kerry, to glistening light shows in Galway and fun-filled ice-skating in Dublin, this map will help bring festive cheer to life this Christmas season.

Click HERE for more