Tag: Social

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!

What Comes After Battle Royales and Open Worlds?

The gaming industry has been through significant transformations in recent years, with genres like battle royales and open worlds dominating the scene. However, as the technology behind gaming and player interaction continues to evolve, the next major genre shift is already beginning to take shape. The focus is moving towards more immersive, dynamic, and interactive environments that cater to player choice in ways we haven’t yet fully explored.

The Role of Blockchain in Gaming

Blockchain technology has already started to make waves in the gaming industry, and it’s expected to have a much greater role in the future. Blockchain allows players to own their in-game items, characters, and even land, enabling a new level of scarcity and value within virtual worlds. It also opens up the possibility of decentralized economies, where players can exchange goods and assets in ways that weren’t possible before.

Blockchain also allows anyone to use their cryptocurrencies how they wish and to play wherever they want, regardless of local restrictions. Playing at best offshore casinos is possible via cryptocurrencies combined with the benefits of offshore casinos, leading to an enhanced and truly free user experience. With blockchain, players might be able to monetize their in-game creations, trade virtual goods securely, and participate in decentralized game governance.

The Rise of Emergent Gameplay

Emergent gameplay is quickly becoming a dominant force in the gaming world. This genre goes beyond the scripted experiences of traditional games, allowing players to create their narratives and outcomes. Games like Minecraft and No Man’s Sky offer the thrill of emergent storytelling in games, and are early examples where players have vast freedom to shape the environment around them, leading to an experience that can vary widely from one session to another. What’s next will take this concept further, with even more powerful tools for player interaction like:

  • Procedurally generated content
  • Infinite world-building potential
  • Community-driven storylines

Interactive, Player-Created Worlds

Next-generation games will allow players to contribute not only to the content but to the entire framework of the game world. Imagine a platform where entire story arcs, environments, and quests are created by the community. Players could seamlessly blend their creations with those of others in a shared universe that feels fresh and unique with each log-in. This concept will blur the line between developers and players, as the boundaries of what constitutes a “game” will shift.

Hyper-Realistic Virtual Worlds

As virtual and augmented reality continue to improve, the lines between gaming and real life will continue to blur. Imagine walking into a completely immersive world where every detail is photorealistic, and the experience feels just as tangible as the physical world. These virtual spaces will evolve to include hyper-realistic graphics, real-time physics simulations, and AI-driven NPCs that can adapt to the player’s actions and decisions. Such advancements would bring a whole new level of immersion to games, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and interaction with:

  • Full-body VR experiences
  • High-definition, interactive environments
  • AI-driven virtual characters

The Rise of Social, Competitive Spaces

While online multiplayer has been a staple of gaming for years, the future will take these spaces to new heights, making them much more integrated with the daily lives of players. Picture an evolving social hub that’s not just about interaction but about competition and wagering. This shift will lead to competitive gaming spaces where players can not only socialize and team up but also place wagers on their skills. Some may even find themselves engaged in competitive games in real-world venues, with the ability to wager and win prizes through innovative platforms, including online offshore casinos.

Evolution of Interactive Storytelling

The focus is slowly shifting away from linear narratives toward highly interactive and evolving storylines where player choice has more significant consequences. Rather than merely choosing dialogue options or character actions, players will influence the core structure of the world and its future events. Imagine a world where player actions ripple out and AI is redefining interactive storytelling, causing long-term changes not only in the world around them but in the narrative itself. Interactive storytelling will adapt and evolve with player behavior, giving rise to unprecedented levels of immersion using:

  • Non-linear plot developments
  • Story arcs responsive to player actions
  • Evolving narratives that change over time

Blurring the Line Between Reality and Gaming

One of the most exciting future developments in gaming is the potential convergence of reality and virtual spaces. Games may evolve to incorporate elements of real life in a way that allows for seamless integration with the physical world. This could be in the form of augmented reality games that have real-world consequences, or perhaps, through digital worlds that accurately mirror our own. These shifts could lead to an entirely new form of gamified living where every decision can be influenced or enhanced by digital experiences.

  • Real-world consequences for in-game actions
  • Mixed-reality gameplay
  • Integration of physical and virtual economies

The Integration of Digital Economies

The gaming landscape will shift towards fully integrated digital economies where players can buy, sell, and trade goods both within and outside of games. Whether it’s through NFTs, cryptocurrency, or in-game currencies that hold real-world value, these economies will extend beyond gaming into broader economic systems. Platforms will allow players to trade their virtual goods in a way that mimics real-world commerce, providing new opportunities for players to profit from their gaming endeavors.

Dell Technologies extends collaboration with Barnardos to support children and families in the community

Dell Technologies has today announced the extension of its current eight-year collaboration with children’s charity Barnardos for a further year. This extension will bring the relationship to almost a decade long commitment to supporting children and their families in communities across Ireland.

Since 2017, Dell Technologies team across its three campuses here in Dublin, Cork and Limerick have raised hundreds of thousands of euros and donated tens of thousands of volunteering hours to support Barnardo’s family support programs. This includes annual participation in Barnardos Giving Day, a key fundraising event calling on the public to donate and support charity’s mission of providing essential services to vulnerable children and families.

The combined funding and the hands-on involvement have helped Barnardos continue their work with 26,000 local children and families they support across 56 services nationwide, who are struggling with poor mental health, bereavement, financial strain and the impact of addiction.

Over the coming year, Barnardos and Dell will provide additional training, social media assistance and volunteering contribution to the children’s charity. Together they will join forces to develop digital learning opportunities so children can access Barnardos services across the country and develop essential digital skills.

Commenting on the charity extension Colman O’Flynn, Cork Site Lead and Vice President of Business Transformation at Dell Technologies Ireland said “We’re delighted to be extending our collaboration with Barnardos Ireland. For close to eight years, our team members have come together to give of their time and skills as well as raising much-needed funds for the inspiring work undertaken by Barnardos and its team in communities across Ireland. This has helped 26,000 children and families in need. By extending our relationship, we can enable the children’s charity to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and the families they serve over the coming two years.”

Welcoming the announcement Suzanne Connolly, Barnardos CEO said: “Since 2017, the Dell Technologies team has been vital in Barnardos mission to create positive change for vulnerable children and families across Ireland. Because childhood lasts a lifetime. The continuous support of volunteers from each Dell site in Dublin, Cork and Limerick each year, particularly for our annual Giving Day, have made such a significant impact to the work we do. We are thrilled that our relationship with Dell is being extended and look forward to what is ahead.”

TrueEQ is a new social networking site where users create and nurture more authentic relationships

For those who feel socially isolated, there’s now a positive way to make more meaningful connections. TrueEQ is a new social networking site where users create and nurture more authentic relationships and reframe how they think about themselves and their place in the world. This app could be the start of a transformative new year!

“TrueEQ is rooted in emotional intelligence,” explains creator Brandon Bishop. “It is for compassionate people who prioritize self-awareness and emotional growth over idealized status and appearance. This foundation enables people to connect on a deeper emotional level, away from the noise and distractions of traditional social media.”

Bishop anticipates this will start a positive movement. “This new platform isn’t a dating app. Nor is it just about meeting like-minded people. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself.”

What is emotional intelligence?

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a skillset that helps people understand and manage their emotions. Its four pillars are:

· Self-awareness: Understanding emotions. Self-awareness involves an individual’s recognition of their feelings, and how they impact their actions and decisions.

· Social awareness: Tuning into others’ emotions. This is about seeing beyond words, tuning into body language, tone, and other subtle cues that reveal deeper feelings.

· Self-management: Mastering your emotions. This is the art of regulating emotional responses in ways that serve relationships rather than harm them.

· Relationship management: Building emotionally intelligent bonds. This is about handling conflict with care, communicating openly, and fostering trust.

“Research consistently shows that individuals with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to manage their emotions, understand the feelings of others, and build strong, empathetic relationships in both personal and professional settings,” says Bishop.

For Bishop, this is a passion project

Bishop, who holds a master’s in secondary education from the University of Missouri, knows firsthand how painful and isolating shallow relationships can be. He grew up with parents who were emotionally unavailable. From a young age, he tried to fill the void with friendships that consistently deteriorated. He began to understand that true self-worth comes from within. The idea of creating a platform where he can teach users how to have safe and authentic interactions took hold.

“TrueEQ is about building connections that uplift and transform. Whether individuals are looking for a friend, partner, or colleague, this new platform can help them find people who truly care, listen, and support them on their emotional journey.”

How the TrueEQ community platform works:

All new users to the free platform will take a 15-question, multiple-choice quiz to assess their strength in each of the four EQ categories. Don’t worry. These results are not shared with anyone.

A proprietary heart meter visually represents each user’s EQ to encourage growth and self-reflection. EQ scores and interests will be used to create connection suggestions.

“People want to surround themselves with communities that are supportive and encouraging,” Bishop observes. “This platform isn’t about posting pictures of your last meal or items you’re selling. It’s designed to unite people who want more meaningful connections and are willing to develop stronger EQ skills.”

This will become a platform for lifelong learning and personal growth Bishop intends to expand the societal impact of this new platform by collaborating with scientific researchers and educators who can contribute content to support the brand’s mission. He also envisions partnering with corporate trainers, therapists, educational institutions, and others to develop TrueEQ training materials and certification programs.

“TrueEQ focuses on creating connections based on emotional depth and empathy. These skills can be valuable in the workplace, our educational system, and in high-stress occupations such as healthcare and first responders. This platform is transformative for anyone wanting more meaningful connections and wanting to get better at handling conflict with care, communicating openly, and fostering trust.” Visit https://trueeq.app/ to access the platform on your desktop or mobile browser. For additional convenience, dedicated apps are available on both the Apple Store and Google Play Store.

Delighting Customers: The Art of Providing Outstanding Service

As businesses constantly shift and adapt to survive in today’s climate, one timeless truth remains firmly intact: exceptional customer service is absolutely essential to success. No matter what business you run, providing outstanding service and delighting customers in a stagnant marketplace can set you apart. 

In this journey, we’ll discover what great customer service is made of, why it’s becoming so important, how to do it effectively, and which tools can make the whole process easier for you.

Ready? Well then, let’s get started. 

The Essence of Good Customer Service

At its heart, excellent customer service goes way beyond just simple transactions. It’s about relationships. 

Good customer service involves understanding your customers on an intimate level and meeting their needs in ways that resonates. Personalization, empathy, responsiveness and consistency all come together to form part of outstanding service delivery. Like when staff remember your preferences or greet you by name when entering a store; this experience alone embodies excellent service delivery. 

Why Good Customer Service Matters

In today’s rapidly shifting commercial environment, where there’s fierce competition and opportunities aplenty, exceptional customer service can’t be overemphasized. It forms the cornerstone of brand loyalty and retention by forging deep relationships between your company and its patrons. Because when customers feel truly cared for they’ll be more loyal than ever to you and your budding business.

But it doesn’t stop there. 

Loyalty

Loyal customers aren’t just shoppers. Their experiences transform them into powerful advocates. Eagerly sharing their experiences with family, friends, and on digital platforms like social media. So beyond just becoming repeat buyers, satisfied customers are living testimonials championing your offerings to an overcrowded market.

Resilience

On the flipside of customer service’s strategic stability lies its resilience. In challenging times when obstacles appear, excellent service acts as your first line of defense. Swiftly responding to concerns and issues shows your personal dedication to the cause. And this simple trick can turn disgruntled customers into the most loyal supporters of your brand. Proactive issue resolution preserves the integrity of your business while making it all the more resilient.

Investment

Customer service shouldn’t simply be seen as a transactional component. Instead, see it as a strategic investment that ensures the growth and longevity of your business. Customer service acts as the bridge that connects your offerings to consumer hearts and minds. Creating strong bonds that last even during difficult times.

Mastering the Art of Delivering Outstanding Service

So, now you know what makes good customer service and why it’s so important. But how do you implement it effectively?

Let’s find out. 

 

I – Understanding Your Customers

To provide outstanding service, it’s absolutely critical that we gain a deeper understanding of what makes our customers tick. You can do this by creating consumer personas to visualize typical buyers. What pain points do they face? And what solutions do they want to see? Having feedback reviews or interactions as sources can guide these strategies accordingly.

 

II – Building a Customer-Centric Culture

 

Outstanding service starts from within. So, as an owner, you set the pace for your team. Do this by investing in training and giving staff autonomy beyond standard duty requirements. A culture of continuous improvement should become common practice. This way your staff’s always engaged in improving and the entire company strives to exceed customer expectations.

 

III – Personalization and Empathy

 

Do you make an effort to ensure your customers are treated as individuals? Extend that feeling by providing personalized experiences tailored just for them. From greeting them by name or offering recommendations based on past purchases to empathizing with their concerns and experiences.

 

IV – Responsiveness and Accessibility

 

Speed matters more than ever in today’s digital environment. That means prompt responses to inquiries or customer concerns are the aim of the game. Doing this demonstrates your respect for them and ensures omnichannel support throughout. Consider 24/7 availability as well as live chat for website visitors which can handle routine queries efficiently.

 

V – Handling Difficult Situations Well

Difficult situations might be unavoidable, but they’re also an opportunity for your organization. Implement de-escalation techniques to diffuse any tension-filled encounters. Empower frontline staff members with creative problem resolution processes with simple guidelines. And for more complex matters establish a clearly communicated escalation procedure so customers know you’re committed to finding solutions.

Tools and Technology for Improving Customer Service 

In today’s fast-paced business world, harnessing tools and technology can significantly enhance your ability to offer excellent customer service. Digital allies like these help navigate interactions with ease while streamlining processes and creating memorable experiences.

Here’s an in-depth look at some essential tools that could revolutionize your customer service approach:

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: 

  • Consolidate Customer Data: Store all customer details in one accessible place to quickly reference past interactions or purchases history.
  • Personalization at Scale: Leverage existing data to deliver tailored recommendations, discounts and offers to individual buyer preferences. 
  • Relationship Building: Gain insights into customer behavior and preferences to foster even more meaningful interactions. 

Helpdesk Software:

  • Efficient Ticket Management: Track and prioritize customer queries to ensure every issue is noticed and addressed. 
  • Collaborative Teamwork: Establish processes that empower and enable customer service personnel to work cooperatively.
  • Automation Capabilities: Automate repetitive tasks to free up valuable team resources to focus on more complex customer requirements. 

Live Chat/Chatbots: 

  • Real-Time Assistance: Deliver real-time assistance for customers visiting your website while improving the experience and decreasing bounce rates. Furthermore, consider enhancing issue resolution with real-time collaboration tools which can further boost customer satisfaction.
  • 24/7 Availability: Make yourself available around-the-clock, for better satisfaction. 
  • Quick Query Resolution: Chatbots should handle frequently asked queries while human team members focus on more complicated concerns. 

Social Media Monitoring: 

  • Multi-Platform Engagement: Monitor mentions, comments and messages across different social media platforms to respond quickly.
  • Reputation Management: Address negative feedback or buyer concerns promptly to demonstrate your dedication.
  • Trend Identify: Recognizing emerging industry-related conversations will allow you to proactively engage new customer pools.

Integrating these tools into your customer service strategy can dramatically change how you engage with your audience. Because technology not only increases efficiency but also elevates customer experiences. 

But remember, while automation plays an essential part, human touch remains crucial. So finding a balance between automation and personalization ensures customers enjoy both worlds.

Measuring Success and Continuous Improvement

After you implement these tools and develop customer service strategies, you’ll need to make sure a means for measuring success is put in place. This’ll help to identify areas for growth and track them over time. 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) play an integral part of measuring this effectiveness. Here are a few KPIs worth taking note of:

 

  • Customer Satisfaction (CSAT)

Assess customer satisfaction via surveys or post-interaction feedback, then measure it against response times for inquiries or issues from your team.

 

  • First Contact Resolution (FCR)

Calculate how quickly issues are addressed during their first interaction, showing your efficiency. 

 

  • Net Promoter Score (NPS)

Determine how likely customers are to recommend your business to others to reflect customer loyalty.

Customer insights provide an absolutely invaluable source of data. Data that can help identify pain points, streamline processes and deliver an outstanding service experience for every shopper.

Empower Customers Through Self-Service Solutions

In an age of instant information, providing customers with self-service options is an important way to improve experiences while relieving the strain on your customer support team. 

Here’s some self-service solutions that could benefit your organization:

 

  • Knowledge Bases and FAQs

Develop an extensive knowledge base that addresses customer inquiries in depth. Customers will appreciate being able to find solutions on their own without spending unnecessary time seeking an answer for themselves.

 

  • Tutorials and How-To Guides

Provide step-by-step video or written guides on using your products or services efficiently. Because video can especially make for engaging learning.

 

  • Develop Interactive Troubleshooters

Create interactive tools that help customers diagnose common issues and provide solutions tailored to each of them.

Expanding Your Horizons: International Customer Service Strategies

Reaching across international borders opens up some pretty amazing prospects. But it also simultaneously creates some distinct obstacles like cultural gaps, time zones and language barriers. 

Here’s how you can excel in international customer service:

 

  • Cultural Sensitivity

Investigate and understand the cultural norms and preferences in each region you’re targeting. Then tailor your communication and support approaches accordingly.

 

  • Multilingual Support

Deliver customer service in multiple languages to meet a more diverse customer base. Do this by either employing translation services or hiring multilingual team members. 

 

  • Localized Knowledge Base/Resources

To address local concerns and practices more directly, make sure you have resources for localized areas.

Maintaining Human Connection in a Digital Era

Technology can play an indispensable part, but keeping an intimate customer experience alive is still hugely significant. 

Here are a few simple ways to offer meaningful interactions to bridge digital and human connections:

 

  • Video Support

Video calls can provide face-to-face interactions and strengthen relationships, increasing your problem solving efficiency.

 

  • Webinars and Live Demos

Host webinars and live demonstrations to showcase your products or services directly. This gives customers direct engagement with your team as well as real-time interaction by asking any relevant questions.

 

  • Virtual Consultations Services

Provide virtual consulting sessions for more complex inquires with personalized advice and solutions provided directly.

Conclusion

Outstanding customer service is at the core of business success, creating connections, loyalty and growth for any enterprise. For small business owners looking for differentiation in customer experience, commitment to delighting customers might just be your secret weapon. 

Every interaction offers the chance to leave an indelible mark, with delighted customers becoming brand advocates who help drive your success further.

So embrace its art, refine strategies and watch as your company thrive through outstanding service delivery.

What Makes Online Money Gaming So Popular Today?

The world of online gaming has undergone a significant change in the recent past, and in particular, a particular segment has emerged largely popular with online money gaming. This category, which encompasses casino games, fantasy sports competitions, etcetera, has attracted many players worldwide. But what makes it popular?

Let’s take a look at the essential aspects that help explain the popularity of online money gaming at the present stage.

Some Reasons For Online Money Gaming’s Popularity

1. Accessibility and Convenience

Previously, whenever people wanted to play for money, they had to play in a casino or arrange tournaments. Online money gaming provides the opportunity for players to access money games from the comfort of their smartphone or personal computer. 

This accessibility also has to do with time. Online games are round the clock and players can join any match at any time they want. Such a model is perfect particularly for working and busy people, because it lacks a fixed time at which the gaming can be done.

2. The Thrill of Competition

Computerised revenue betting usually triggers the competitive nature of the player. This means that games for real, contentious, stakes always build up plenty of excitement and a feeling of accomplishment. Earning money, whether it is an earned amount or a lucky draw, will be a bonus compared to competing for just the fun of it.

Through the scores, speeds, and other related metrics, and the availability of leaderboards, competitions, and rankings, the whole experience is also greatly further complemented by competition. Such a feeling of competition brings back the gamers again and again.

3. Advanced Technology

The increased use of technology has been the largest factor in the development of online money gaming. The current gaming platforms are endowed with high-quality graphics, realistic gameplay and user-friendly interfaces.

Furthermore, ideas such as live dealer games in online casinos or AR experiences give the participants a more engaging setting. Users feel they are connected to a group even those playing from the comfort of their living room.

4. Diverse Game Selection

Another advantage of money gaming on the internet is the incredibly wide selection to choose from. From poker to slots, to fantasy leagues, to electronic and online sports betting, there is something for every individual. Such diversity leads to the situation where there are games that would be important for individuals of all types of interests and experiences.

Platforms offering exciting online games amplify this appeal with dynamic designs, regular updates, and promotional events. All the platforms have services for both small and big risk-takers, and this is non-discriminatory. 

5. Social Interaction

Today’s money gaming platforms online are not only about games but about people as well. Most games boast of having a chat feature, a multiplayer option or a live event, in which people can participate.

Its social feature also works to ensure that you feel like you are with other people which can be a lot of fun. It is not just a cash game – people are also staking rapport and relishing the feeling with others.

Final Words

Online money gaming has thus evolved into an international business, characterized by convenience, imagination and the opportunities of gains. This is clearly not just about making money, which people do quite well, but also about the fun of it, the tactics, and the camaraderie!

Facebook and Instagram most identified by public for featuring fraudulent adverts

In advance of International Fraud Awareness Week, research commissioned by Bank of Ireland has shown that 90% of the population believe fraud is a big problem in Irish society, with fake online purchase scams being the most common way for consumers to lose money.

One third of those surveyed said they had been targeted by a fraudulent advert on a social media platform. When these respondents were asked to identify the platform, 65% identified Facebook, 28% identified Instagram, with X at 13%, TikTok at 11%, and Snapchat at 4%.

In addition, almost half (47%) of citizens aged 18+ have seen adverts for investments or crypto currency on a social media platform featuring a well-known personality, politician or musician. The impersonation of well-known people and media organisations is a tactic used regularly in fraudulent ads to trick consumers into fake crypto investments, bond purchases, or savings products.

This can include impersonation of individuals such as President Michael D. Higgins, An Taoiseach Simon Harris, An Tánaiste Micheal Martin, former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Denis O’Brien, Dáithí Ó Sé, Brian Dowling and Tommy Tiernan.  Adverts can also include links to fake websites impersonating RTE, the Irish Independent, Forbes, The Irish News, BBC News, the Irish Mirror, and many others.

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Fraudulent adverts are a blight on social media platforms. These adverts are all about one thing – the theft of money from consumers and businesses by criminals. They cause harm to people, the financial services system, and the economy. 

“Much more needs to be done. One common sense step would be to ensure that online platforms check that adverts are from companies that are regulated to sell financial products and services. The current approach, which is allowing fraudsters run fake ads that impersonate celebrities, politicians, and legitimate media organisations – all with the aim of stealing money – is clearly broken. 

“That’s why Bank of Ireland is calling for legislative change at European Union level so that online platforms will have to verify that advertisers of financial services are regulated to sell those services.”

Findings from the Red C poll among the Irish general public include:

  • Fake advertisements were most commonly seen on Facebook and Instagram followed by Twitter/X (13%), TikTok (11%) and Snapchat (4%).
  • The majority of people (66%) report fraud to their bank, followed by the Gardai (17%)
  • When asked to select all parties they believe responsible for protecting people from fraud in Ireland 66% selected Banks and Financial Services companies, along with the Gardai (51%), mobile phone (39%) and social media companies (39%).  60% of the population believe they themselves have a role.

The research was conducted as part of an ongoing campaign to raise awareness among Bank of Ireland customers and the general public around the danger of fraud to their personal finances and how to safeguard against the main causes of fraud. International Fraud Awareness Week runs from Monday 18 November, with a series of communications planned by Bank of Ireland to further raise awareness among the general public around fraud protection.

eir Launches First Economic and Social Impact Report 2024

eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications provider, has today released its first ever comprehensive Economic and Social Impact Report, which highlights that the company has invested almost €1.7 billion in telecommunications infrastructure in the last six years, supporting Ireland to become one of the most digitally connected countries in Europe.

eir has also announced a further €500 million investment to expand its fibre network across Ireland, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing nationwide connectivity.

The report has found that eir plays a pivotal role in advancing digital inclusion across Ireland, supporting €172 billion in digital economic activity with its expansive network. eir’s continued investments, in tandem with the Government’s National Broadband Plan, aim to ensure that by the end of 2028, every home and business in Ireland – covering over 2.4 million premises – will have access to high-speed gigabit broadband. This effort promises to bring transformative connectivity to communities nationwide, empowering Ireland’s digital future.

Key findings from the Report:

  • eir has invested €1.664 billion in Ireland since 2018, supporting substantial infrastructure development.
  • In 2023, eir’s capital expenditure was €288 million, consistent with previous years.
  • eir employs 3,170 people directly across Ireland, creating approximately 4,755 indirect and induced jobs nationwide.
  • eir’s broadband infrastructure underpins €172 billion in Ireland’s economic activity, essential to the country’s digital economy.
  • eir’s investments help Ireland rank among the top five EU countries in the Digital Economy and Society Index.

eir aims to provide gigabit fibre connectivity to 1.9 million homes and businesses throughout Ireland. To date, this network is already available to more than 1.3 million premises, with almost 500,000 homes and businesses now connected.

Speaking at today’s launch, Oliver Loomes, CEO of eir, said “A digitally inclusive economy and society are crucial for Ireland’s future. With an additional €500 million committed investment in our communications infrastructure, eir is committed to strengthening this foundation. This report not only highlights our direct contributions to the Irish economy through employment and investment but also our broader impact in enabling the digital economy. Our extensive network infrastructure is essential to Ireland’s digital transformation, supporting both EU and national strategies that prioritise digitalisation for societal, economic, and environmental advancement. eir’s infrastructure underpins €172 billion in economic activity across Ireland.”

Also speaking at the launch of the report, Associate Professor Emeritus of Economics, Anthony Foley, of Dublin City University Business School, and author of the Report, “What we have found in conducting this research is that a cutting-edge digital network infrastructure is the foundation of a flourishing digital economy and society. The globalisation and FDI aspects of the Irish economy mean that broadband infrastructure and services, and international digital connectivity are significant competitiveness issues. Ireland is a very open economy. There is a continuing need to match, and ideally exceed, international broadband capability.”

The Report also underscores eir’s commitment to sustainability, with the rollout of a full-fibre network to 84% of Irish homes and businesses playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and improving network resilience against climate-related storms.

Through ongoing infrastructure investments, a focus on sustainability, and promoting digital inclusion, eir is shaping Ireland’s digital future and eir’s further €500 million network investment will fuel innovation, enhance connectivity, and create new opportunities for businesses and communities across the country.

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How Smart Glasses Could Reshape Crypto Casinos

With smart glasses coming back, blending the digital with the real world is increasingly seamless. Smart glasses, which can place digital information directly in our line of vision, are burgeoning far beyond any novelty and becoming both practical and fashionable devices.

Put alongside crypto, these spectacles make the experience of playing on crypto casino websites way more immersive and engaging. Smart glasses might redefine how players interact with the online gaming worlds: from live streaming with real-time virtual dealers to augmented reality, there’s a huge amount going on here! This will make every game instance feel more distinctive and captivating. Even big brands like Ray-Ban and Facebook are interested in this space – and they’re far from alone.

Smart Glasses Bring Crypto Casino Experiences to Life

Imagine entering a casino where the key details of every game appear before your eyes at a glance. That virtual experience is something smart glasses/wearable technology can offer in the world of online gaming. With digital information superimposed onto the physical environment, smart glasses could enable players to see statistics, principles, and advice in real-time without interrupting their play.

For people who are fanatical blackjack or poker players (and these are two of the top card games in most casinos these days), this is a massive development. No more having to sit on the sidelines watching the other players enjoying themselves while you judge if a given table feels like a good fit to you. All the relevant information could be there at a glance. You wouldn’t even need to manually look anything up: the information would just be there. 

Of course, in the digital world, this kind of information is usually accessible if you want it, but it’s a revolutionary breakthrough for those playing in physical spaces. Even on the crypto casino websites, having this info just floating in front of you when you need it would be a vast improvement from having to navigate to a different page to access it – potentially breaking the flow just when you are getting immersed. The added level of engagement that this brings could make gaming worlds feel more immersive than ever before.

This interactivity would be particularly beneficial to players on crypto casino websites, where a wide range of games are available, from virtual slots to digital poker. Smart glasses could offer an experience in which each turn and every game feels much more immersive, injecting something extra and encouraging players to stay invested. Through real-time overlays, players gain a new level of control over their experience, which is a massive benefit to everyone.

How Smart Glasses Tailor Social Gaming Experiences

Smart glasses tailored for gaming could mean every user’s experience is unique, amplifying the appeal of crypto casinos by adding an immersive, customized touch. Social interaction and connectivity in virtual gaming smart glasses have the potential to create a more social experience within crypto casinos. 

In crypto casino games, socializing could mean chatting with friends, seeing their reactions, or even “sitting” together at virtual tables. These interactions, facilitated by smart glasses, could make crypto casinos more than just gaming platforms — they could become social spaces where users connect, share experiences, and enjoy a heightened sense of togetherness.

Upgraded Privacy for Crypto Casino Users

It is absolutely necessary that users in the crypto casino world maintain their personal privacy, and an added layer of protection for sensitive information comes in the form of smart glasses. Equipped with the ability to show information only to the person wearing them, smart glasses are a major step forward for anyone who values data security. Players can manipulate their digital wallets or crypto assets on a screen only visible to them. This newly improved privacy is in line with what crypto players want. Security and anonymity: these are the main features which they look for in online interactions.

No more worrying about who may be looking over your shoulder – these glasses are  – literally – for your eyes only. This means that it is both easier and also much safer to take care of things while out wandering around than has ever been possible before.

The Future of Smart Glasses in Crypto Gaming

As smart glasses and other forms of emerging technologies become more integrated into our digital lives, they bring all kinds of fresh possibilities into this ever-popular field. To begin with, one’s experience of gaming online at a crypto casino is growing ever more immersive and enriched thanks to these new gadgets. Smart glasses combine AR, social features, and heightened privacy: they are about to level up the experience of being in a crypto casino, taking things well beyond what we thought possible several decades ago. The future of crypto gaming looks bright and with accompanying games that make the most of the tech, we foresee amazing things here. Only time will tell exactly what this space holds and what new, exciting hardware might still be on the horizon!