For many, it’s an opportunity to plan ahead which extends beyond contemplating the holiday advertisements and major family events of 2026. Nor is it likely that the White House will be mollified by hosting the 2026 World Cup between June 11 and July 19 with rows already raging about the cost of match tickets. Almost nine out of every 10 in-store card payments are now contactless and there has also been widespread adoption of mobile wallets. At the start of each year, the Central Bank of Ireland issues a report on illicit credit transfers, card payments, e-money, and direct debits. Around 98% of card payment fraud by value occurs when criminals use a stolen card, account or personal information.

Source: Irish Examiner December 27, 2025 01:22 UTC