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Fans Face Ticket Scams Ahead of Historic NFL Game in Dublin

American football fans in Ireland are facing a surge in ticket scams as excitement builds for the first-ever regular season NFL game at Croke Park. Scheduled for September 28, 2024, the matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings has generated intense demand, with over 600,000 fans attempting to secure tickets. Many enthusiasts have expressed frustration after queuing for hours only to miss out.
Reports indicate a significant increase in complaints regarding the ticket sale process, with financial crime experts warning that fraudsters are exploiting the high demand. Data from Revolut, a financial technology company with over three million customers in Ireland, reveals an alarming 80 percent increase in ticket scam reports in the two weeks following the ticket sale launch on June 17. During this period, there was also a 48 percent rise in financial losses linked to ticket scams.
Warning from Experts
Dr. Nicola Harding, CEO of We Fight Fraud, emphasized the importance of using official platforms for ticket purchases. “When regulated resale options are removed, fans don’t stop searching for tickets; they simply turn to social media where fraudsters posing as fans lie in wait,” she stated. Her organization’s research indicates that three in four tickets bought through unofficial channels are scams.
The situation is particularly concerning given the strict ticket resale laws in Ireland, which include a price cap that prevents reselling above face value. This regulation effectively eliminates legal and regulated secondary ticket options, forcing fans to resort to unregulated platforms where consumer protection is lacking.
As the kickoff date approaches, experts urge fans to be vigilant. “Events like this attract local NFL fans and many from overseas, making them prime targets for sophisticated criminals,” said Dave Eborne, Head of Fraud Operations at Revolut. He highlighted that fraudsters exploit less controlled environments, such as social media platforms, to create convincing scams that can easily deceive consumers in their eagerness to secure tickets.
Common Scams and Protective Measures
Fraudsters employ several tactics to lure fans into scams. Common strategies include advertising tickets at unrealistically low prices, pressuring potential buyers to act quickly to avoid missing out, and providing fake screenshots of digital tickets. Often, scammers operate from locations far from the event, making in-person meetings unlikely.
In Ireland, the prevalence of scams is notably higher than in markets without price caps. Research indicates that approximately 13.6 percent of Irish consumers reported being scammed, compared to just 3.8 percent in the UK. This disparity underscores the need for more transparent regulation of the resale market in Ireland.
Eborne remarked, “While capping resale prices aims to protect consumers, it inadvertently provides a breeding ground for fraud.” He advocates for improved regulation and consumer education as essential measures to combat ticket scams and protect fans.
As the demand for tickets continues to soar, both We Fight Fraud and Revolut advise fans to remain cautious and to prioritize official, regulated ticket sales platforms. With two months until the historic game, the urgency to secure authentic tickets increases, making vigilance crucial for all potential attendees.
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Woman Hospitalized with Severe Injuries After Dog Attack in Cork

BREAKING: A woman in her 30s has been rushed to Cork University Hospital with serious injuries following a horrific dog attack this evening in the Ballyvolane area of Cork city. The incident, which occurred around 6 PM, has left the victim in a serious but not life-threatening condition.
Witnesses report hearing the woman’s screams as she was attacked by a large dog in a housing estate. Local residents rushed to her aid, but the dog managed to knock her to the ground and inflicted severe injuries to her face, arms, and head. Another woman was also bitten during this shocking event, though she declined hospital treatment and was treated at the scene by paramedics.
Emergency services, including Gardai and armed officers, quickly arrived on the scene after residents made an urgent emergency call. The dog, whose breed remains unidentified, was eventually brought under control and removed from the estate. Paramedics treated the seriously injured woman before transporting her to Cork University Hospital, where she is set to undergo surgery for her injuries.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack, including whether the victim was the dog’s owner.
This incident adds to increasing concerns about dog attacks in the region, with previous incidents highlighting the potential dangers posed by larger breeds. Authorities are now emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership to prevent further tragedies.
As the investigation unfolds, residents in Cork are urged to report any dangerous animals and remain vigilant. Further updates on the victim’s condition and the investigation will be provided as they become available.
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Teenage Star Victor Ozhianvuna Shines in Shamrock Rovers’ Cup Win

UPDATE: Teenage sensation Victor Ozhianvuna has made headlines after scoring a stunning goal on his full debut as the Shamrock Rovers defeated Wexford 4-0 in the FAI Cup today. The 16-year-old’s exceptional performance not only marked a significant milestone for the player but also underscored the Rovers’ dominance in this knockout competition.
The match took place at Tallaght and saw Ozhianvuna netting his first goal for the club in just the eighth minute. His early strike set the tone for the game, demonstrating his potential and poise under pressure. This victory propels the Rovers into the third round of the FAI Cup, with fans buzzing over the young talent’s impressive display.
Despite a challenging first half, where Wexford threatened with fast breaks, Shamrock Rovers dominated possession. Ozhianvuna’s goal came from a perfectly timed cross by Darragh Nugent, showcasing his ability to find space and react quickly. Ozhianvuna’s goal was a crisp, first-time volley that left the crowd in awe.
The Rovers, who currently sit eight points clear at the top of the Premier Division, had made seven changes from their last match against Sligo Rovers. This included starting debuts for Ozhianvuna and recent signing John McGovern, which proved to be a successful strategy for manager Stephen Bradley.
As the match progressed, Wexford struggled to maintain momentum despite a few promising attacks, particularly from former Rovers academy player Ajibola Oluwabiyi. The visitors, who reached the semi-finals last year, could not capitalize on their limited opportunities.
With frustrations rising among the Rovers, Bradley made five substitutions around the 63rd minute, bringing on key players including Graham Burke and Rory Gaffney. This shift in strategy paid off, as Burke scored the second goal in the 75th minute, following a well-executed build-up.
The Rovers continued to pile on the pressure, with Gaffney securing the third goal shortly after. He also assisted Danny Mandroiu for the fourth goal in the 90th minute, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Rovers and eliminating Wexford from the tournament.
Ozhianvuna’s standout performance has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike, with many speculating about his future potential in the game. The young star was recognized as the SUN STAR MAN for his outstanding debut.
As the Rovers advance, all eyes will be on them in the upcoming rounds of the FAI Cup. The team’s blend of youthful talent and experienced players positions them as formidable contenders for this year’s title. Fans can expect thrilling matches ahead as Shamrock Rovers aim to continue their winning streak.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the Rovers’ journey in the FAI Cup!
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Astronomer Launches Urgent Investigation After Viral Coldplay Moment

UPDATE: Astronomer, the company employing the two individuals featured in a viral kiss-cam moment at a Coldplay concert, has launched a formal investigation following the incident that has captivated millions. The awkward encounter occurred during Coldplay’s performance on Wednesday night in Foxborough, Massachusetts, becoming an internet sensation with over 69 million views.
The video depicts a man, identified as Andy Byron, the CEO of Astronomer, along with Kristin Cabot, the company’s head of human resources, awkwardly responding to being displayed on the stadium’s big screens. As they realize they are being watched, they quickly attempt to exit the frame, with Cabot covering her face and Byron diving to the floor. The moment unfolded during Coldplay’s romantic song, “Yellow,” and was captured by a concert-goer whose TikTok post has since garnered 6.8 million likes.
In response to the viral moment, Astronomer released an official statement asserting its commitment to company values and culture. “Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability,” the statement read. The Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation into the incident, promising to share more details shortly.
Amid the uproar, the company clarified that a nearby individual mistakenly identified as another employee was not part of the incident, and they dispelled a fake statement attributed to Byron circulating online.
The woman who recorded the video expressed her surprise at the overwhelming attention, stating, “I’m glad you guys are entertained… But at the end of the day, Andy’s wife and his family are very real people, so just keep that in mind.” She noted that she has not been contacted by any lawyers regarding her role in posting the footage.
Meanwhile, the concert-goer also offered an apology to Coldplay’s frontman, Chris Martin, for the unintended drama, stating, “If anything, I hope all this attention is bringing you even more fans that you deserve.”
As the investigation unfolds, many are left wondering about the implications of this viral moment on both the individuals involved and the company itself. The situation continues to develop, and further updates are anticipated from Astronomer. Stay tuned for more breaking news on this intriguing story.
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Kilkenny Priest Declares Working Mothers a “Curse” on Society

URGENT UPDATE: A Kilkenny priest has stirred controversy after labeling working mothers as a “curse” on society during a lecture at the Presentation Convent in Kilkenny earlier this week. The priest’s remarks have ignited a heated debate on parental responsibilities and societal values.
Speaking to a group of young girls, the priest criticized what he termed the “apathetic” attitudes of many parents in the southeast, asserting that they “don’t give a damn” about their daughters’ education or safety. His hard-hitting comments underscore a growing concern over the influence of parental behavior on children’s development.
The priest pointedly accused parents of hypocrisy, stating, “I know of parents who are too damn lazy to get up and go to Mass on a Sunday morning and are too busy in the evening getting ready to go for a drink.” He questioned the effectiveness of such parents pushing their children to attend Mass, warning that children would eventually recognize the inconsistencies in their parents’ actions.
“How could children living in this type of environment have any respect for their parents or, indeed, any authority?”
The priest further escalated his critique by arguing that the working mother is damaging the economy by taking jobs that could otherwise go to young people. “Let’s face it, if all the wives hold on to their jobs in this country, there will be no jobs left for their sons and daughters,” he declared, emphasizing the potential long-term consequences of current employment trends.
This provocative stance has sparked immediate reactions from parents and educators alike, raising questions about the balance between work and family life in today’s society. As the debate unfolds, many are left wondering how these comments will impact perceptions of working mothers and their roles within the family and community.
As discussions continue, the priest’s remarks serve as a significant reminder of the challenges faced by working families and the societal expectations placed upon them. The implications of his statements are sure to resonate throughout Kilkenny and beyond, prompting further dialogue about parental responsibilities and children’s upbringing.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. The conversation around working mothers and their contributions to society is just beginning.
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