Latest news with #SSN
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sky Sports News' golden age at an end as rival platforms turn up the volume
A constant in pubs, gyms and hotel breakfast rooms, almost always with the sound down. Perhaps not since cinema's silent age have faces been so familiar without the general public knowing their voices. The vibe is more casual than in previous times, shirt sleeves rather than business suits, but the formula remains the same: a carousel of news, clips, quotes, quips, centred around highlights, all framed within a constant flow of results, fixtures and league tables. Sky Sports News hits 27 years of broadcasting in August, having been launched for the 1998-99 football season by BSkyB. As the domestic football season concluded, news came of changes within the Osterley-based newsroom. Seven members of the broadcast talent team would be leaving, including the long-serving Rob Wotton and the senior football reporter Melissa Reddy, within a process of voluntary redundancies. Advertisement Sky sources – not those Sky sources – are keen to state the changes are not a cost-cutting exercise, instead a redress of SSN's place within a changing media environment. Ronan Kemp, the One Show presenter and Celebrity Goggleboxer, is understood to be in discussions to join Sky and despite Wotton's departure, Ref Watch will still be serving those who get their kicks from re-refereeing matches and VAR calls. Rolling news, which became common currency around the time of the initial Gulf war with Iraq is no longer the go-to information environment. Sky News, SSN's sister organisation, is going through similar changes, including the loss of the veteran anchor Kay Burley. The smartphone, where news alerts supplant even social media, takes the strain of keeping the world informed of Micky van de Ven's latest hamstring injury. Desperate to hear even more from Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville? There are podcasts and YouTube channels available at a swipe. In the US, ESPN's SportsCenter and its accompanying ESPNews channel were the progenitors of a medium copied globally and by Sky in launching SSN. SportsCenter is a flagship in marked decline from a golden 1990s era that made American household names of presenters such as Stuart Scott, Keith Olbermann and Dan Patrick. ESPN, an organisation in the process of taking itself to digital platforms as cable TV gets mothballed, closed SportsCenter's Los Angeles studio in March. Linear TV's death will be slow, but it is dying nonetheless as streaming, all bundles and consumer choice, takes hold. Meanwhile, YouTube channels, with production values way below industry standard, amass huge audiences for fan-owned, independent media. Advertisement The time of viewers tuning in for 10pm highlights voiced over by presenters' catchphrases – Scott's 'boo yah!' being the prime example – has long passed. Social media and YouTube have killed the demand. Though live sports remain the foundation of broadcasting contracts, highlights and analysis can be watched at the time of the viewers' choice. Digital is where the eyeballs go, and what the advertising dollar is attracted to, despite the ubiquity of Go Compare et al. Viewing figures remain healthy but the game is now about far more than ratings. SSN's imperial period was the early millennium days of Dave Clark and Kirsty Gallacher's toothsome double act, to a time when the yellow ticker of breaking news held great sway, though not always delivering on its promise of earthquake journalism (news of Nicky Shorey's Reading contract extension, anyone?). Millie Clode, Di Stewart, Charlotte Jackson, Kelly Cates: a nation turned its lonely eyes to them. Then there was transfer deadline day, more important than the football itself. Long, frantic hours spent hearing Jim White's Glaswegian whine declare anything could happen on this day of days. In the early years it often did, from Peter Odemwingie's mercy dash to Loftus Road to the brandishing of a sex toy in the earhole of reporter Alan Irwin outside Everton's training ground. Another reporter, Andy 'four phones' Burton, labelled the night the 2008 window closed: 'The best day of my life, apart from when my son was born.' Eventually, though, it became too knowing. Not even White's yellow tie, as garish as his hype, accompanied by Natalie Sawyer's yellow dress, could stop the event from becoming desperate hours chasing diminishing returns. Live television is a challenging environment, especially with nothing to feed off. Advertisement Though many presenters have been lampooned – abused in the more carrion social media age – the difficulty of 'going live' with an earpiece full of instructions and timings should never be underestimated. How does Mike Wedderburn, the channel's first presenter, make it look so easy? When, in a broadcasting-carriage dispute between Virgin and Sky, Setanta Sports News was given brief life in 2007 – 22 months as the Dagmar to Sky's Queen Vic – it was made apparent how hard, and costly, the business can be. Over-exposure to SSN – as happens when someone works in a newspaper sports department, say – can lead to contempt. The joins can be seen, too. Haven't they done that same gag for the past six hours and each time pretended it was an ad lib? Just what is Gary Cotterill up to this time? Why did Bryan Swanson always use such portentous tones? From morning till night, it would be ever-present. On weekend evenings, when you caught the skilled veteran duo of Julian Waters and the late David Bobin running through the day's events, you knew it was time to leave the office, down that late drink, question your life choices, the pair's clipped tones taking on the effect of a lonely late-night cab ride. SSN is forced to move with the times. As is the case across the industry, journalists have often been supplanted by influencers, as the mythical, perhaps unreachable, 'younger audience' is chased. That is not to say the channel is short of decent reporting. In the aftermath of the 2022 Champions League final in Paris, chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol produced a superb account of the ensuing chaos and danger while others floundered for detail. Advertisement SSN, like SportsCenter across the Atlantic, is now more a production factory for content being sent across the internet, published to multiple platforms, than it is a rolling news channel. Within press statements around the redundancies there was the word 'agile', a term repurposed – and overused – in the business world, but meaning doing more with less. Next season, as heavily trailed on SSN right now, Sky will have 215 Premier League live matches to show, including every game played on Sundays. That requires the company's shift in focus, for Sky Sports News in particular. Though look up wherever you are and it will still be on in the corner, almost certainly with the sound down.
Cision Canada
10-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
PEXX Launches Borderless USD Neo-Bank for the Global Generation
Borderless dollar banking—built different for people who live and work everywhere SINGAPORE, June 10, 2025 /CNW/ -- PEXX, the cross-border USD platform built for today's mobile workforce, has opened its full neo-banking suite to customers in more than 50 countries. The launch delivers four connected products that let users Bank Different, Pay Different, Send Different, and Earn Different —replacing legacy bank delays, paperwork, and hidden fees with real-time settlement and transparent pricing. Since its initial launch in 2024, PEXX has empowered users across 50+ countries to move money faster, easier, and more affordably than traditional finance. With its expanded platform, PEXX fills three gaps no single provider closes: What legacy banks won't offer: a full-feature USD account you can open from anywhere—no branch visits, no U.S. residency required. What crypto exchanges can't deliver: fast, global crypto-to-fiat transfers that arrive as spendable dollars, off-chain and straight into bank accounts. What most neo-banks still lack: on-demand tokenized U.S.-Treasury yield (T-Bills) and real-time stablecoin settlement, working seamlessly and interchangeably with your dollars and Visa card. Together, these capabilities hand the borderless, digital-first generation one modern way to hold, move, and grow dollars—wherever life goes next. Banking Done Different USD and Stablecoins Everywhere. All at Once PEXX gives users everything they expect from a USD bank—without the barriers. Key features include: Borderless Virtual USD Accounts Open a full-featured digital USD account with zero monthly fees, no minimums, and instant onboarding using just a passport and phone—no U.S. residency or SSN required. Deposit in USDT or USDC, send and receive USD via SWIFT, ACH, and Fedwire from anywhere. Daily Interest Wallet Earn up to 3.5% APY automatically on idle balances, powered by tokenized U.S. Treasury Bills via regulated third-party infrastructure. No lockups. No hidden risks. Yield is paid daily. PEXX Card Spend USD, USDT, or USDC at 150M+ merchants worldwide with your free global Visa debit card—from Uber Eats and Alipay to your Netflix subscription. Free instant Visa virtual card with a flat 1.2% FX fee. Global Off-Ramp Transfers Send USD and stablecoins directly to bank accounts in over 50 countries, typically clearing within minutes, sometimes seconds, and always within 24 hours. Industry-leading FX rates and real-time Google FX pricing for full transparency. The Best Rates in the Game In key payment corridors, PEXX has developed stablecoin payment infrastructure to outperform leading global fintech players. Illustration of comparison below on 2 June 2025: By pairing real-time FX with zero transfer fees, PEXX lets users keep 1–2% more on every transfer—ideal for freelancers, businesses, and global citizens. Built for the Rest of Us PEXX is accessible worldwide—purpose-built for: Freelancers, remote workers, and creators earning in USD and stablecoins. Expats, students, and digital nomads managing cross-border payments. Startups and SMEs paying global teams or suppliers. Everyday users who want to store—and grow—USD securely. "Banking Without Borders" "PEXX gives you everything you expect from a USD bank—except the borders, high fees and friction. Our mission is simple: if you've got a passport and a phone, you should have full access to USD, just like anyone else. That's the future we're building." — Marcus Lim, CEO and Founder of PEXX Seed Funding & Growth Roadmap PEXX recently closed over $4 million seed round led by TNB Aura, with participation from Antler and LongHash Ventures, alongside angel investors including Dexter Lo, Kenneth Low. This strategic funding will fuel the company's next phase—spanning global licensing, product innovation, and expansion across Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. PEXX also partners with Fireblocks for secure asset custody and Ripple for ultra-fast global blockchain payments. As an AUSTRAC-registered Digital Currency Exchange (DCE) and remittance dealer and Money Service Business in the US, PEXX combines cutting-edge technology with regulatory compliance to deliver a truly borderless banking experience. About PEXX PEXX is a next-generation USD platform and neo-banking suite built for the global generation. Founded in 2024, it delivers borderless access to U.S. dollars through interest-bearing wallets, real-time transfers, and a globally accepted Visa card—powered by stablecoins, tokenized T-Bills, and blockchain settlement. From freelancers to founders, PEXX brings Wall-Street-level financial tools to everyone, everywhere—showing there's a smarter, truly different way to send, spend, earn, and bank your money.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Yahoo
Digital Social Security cards coming this summer
The Social Security Administration (SSA) just announced a major update. Starting this summer, Americans with a "My Social Security" account will be able to access their digital Social Security number (SSN) online. The goal is to simplify access, reduce paper card replacements and improve data protection. But with convenience comes new cybersecurity concerns. Here's how the digital SSN works, why it's being introduced now and the steps you should take to protect your SSN from identity theft both online and offline. Join the FREE "CyberGuy Report": Get my expert tech tips, critical security alerts and exclusive deals, plus instant access to my free "Ultimate Scam Survival Guide" when you sign up! The SSA is introducing secure digital access to your Social Security number through the "My Social Security" portal. If you forget your SSN, misplace your card or need to share your number for non-SSA purposes (such as job applications or financial services), you'll be able to view your number online from a mobile device. "This enhancement will provide individuals…a simple solution allowing them to securely view their SSN online," said the SSA. This update eliminates the need for mail delays or in-person visits to your local SSA office. Top Ways To Safeguard Your Social Security Number Read On The Fox News App There are a few big reasons the SSA is rolling this out now: Aging physical cards: The SSA estimates there are 47 different versions of the Social Security card still in circulation. Many of them were issued before 1983 and lack basic security features, making them easier to forge or misuse. Rising identity theft risks: Your SSN is one of the most sensitive identifiers tied to your name. When cards are lost, stolen or handled carelessly, it creates opportunities for identity theft, fraud and account takeovers. Demand for digital access: More Americans now expect to access government services from their phones or computers. Long lines at SSA offices and delays in mail processing have made it harder for people to get help quickly. A digital SSN provides faster, safer and more convenient access to your number when you need it. Is Your Social Security Number At Risk? Signs Someone Might Be Stealing It The digital SSN option will be available in early summer 2025. If you already have a "My Social Security" account, you'll be able to access the feature once it rolls out. You'll need a "My Social Security" account to use the digital SSN features. Here's how to get started: 1) Visit the SSA's account portal: Go to and click "Create an Account." 2) Verify your identity: You'll be asked to provide your name, birthdate, SSN and address. The SSA may use a third-party identity verification service and ask questions based on your credit report. 3) Choose a username and password: Use a strong, unique password and set up two-factor authentication with your phone number or an authenticator app. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. 4) Log in and check your dashboard: Once the digital SSN feature launches, you'll be able to view your number securely from your account on a mobile device or computer. If you're already signed up, double-check your security settings and make sure your contact information is current. Outsmart Hackers Who Are Out To Steal Your Identity Even with digital access making your SSN more convenient, it's still one of the most sensitive pieces of personal information you own. If your SSN falls into the wrong hands, it can lead to identity theft, credit fraud and even tax return scams. Here are the best ways to protect it: 1) Use a strong password for your SSA account: Create a unique, complex password for your "My Social Security" account and enable two-factor authentication. This ensures that even if someone guesses your password, they won't be able to log in without a second verification step. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here. 2) Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your SSN: If you're checking your SSA account, avoid doing so over unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi. Use a secure home network or VPN to encrypt your connection and protect your session from hackers. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices. 3) Be cautious of phishing scams and use strong antivirus software: Scammers often pose as the SSA to trick you into revealing your SSN. Don't click links in unsolicited emails or texts and never give personal information unless you're sure the source is legitimate. Always go directly to if in doubt. To block suspicious links and attachments before they reach you, consider using strong antivirus software. The right antivirus can help detect phishing attempts and protect you from malicious downloads. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices. 4) Monitor your credit and bank accounts and use an identity theft service: Staying on top of your financial activity is one of the most effective ways to catch identity theft early. That's where identity protection services come in. Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft. 5) Check your credit reports: Make it a habit to review your credit reports regularly. Look for unfamiliar accounts, unauthorized inquiries or incorrect personal information. If something seems off, contact the credit bureau right away to dispute it. 6) Request an IRS Identity Protection PIN: Prevent fraudulent tax filings using your SSN by setting up an Identity Protection Pin with the IRS. This six-digit number adds another layer of protection during tax season. 7) Review your Social Security earnings record: Log in to your "My Social Security" account regularly to review your earnings history and benefits. This helps ensure your information hasn't been altered or compromised. Starting this summer, the SSA will let you view your Social Security number online through your "My Social Security" account. It's a secure, convenient update that cuts down on lost cards and office visits. To use it safely, set up strong login credentials and two-factor authentication. And since your SSN remains a top target for identity thieves, now's the time to protect it with tools like a password manager, VPN, antivirus software and identity theft monitoring. Do you trust digital access to your Social Security number? Let us know by writing to us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover. Follow Kurt on his social channels: Facebook YouTube Instagram Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: What is the best way to protect your Mac, Windows, iPhone and Android devices from getting hacked? What is the best way to stay private, secure and anonymous while browsing the web? How can I get rid of robocalls with apps and data removal services? How do I remove my private data from the internet? New from Kurt: Try CyberGuy's new games (crosswords, word searches, trivia and more!) CyberGuy's exclusive coupons and deals Copyright 2025 All rights article source: Digital Social Security cards coming this summer
Business Wire
03-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
FlexPath and Agility Credit Deliver Fast, Fraud-Safe Prequal Using Just a Phone Number
CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--FlexPath DXP, creator of the patent-pending VeriQual™ solution for real-time identity-verified credit prequalification, announces a new integration partnership with Agility Credit, a trusted provider of soft-pull credit technology. This integration makes it easier than ever for dealers to access verified consumer data through VeriQual using Agility's credit services—delivering faster, safer credit decisions using just a phone number. Now dealers can instantly verify identity and prequalify buyers with just a phone number—no SSN required. Share The Agility integration marks the latest milestone in FlexPath's commitment to building a flexible, partner-friendly ecosystem. Dealers now have more options for accessing VeriQual through their preferred credit bureau reseller relationships—empowering them to choose the setup that best fits their compliance, workflow, and customer experience needs. 'Agility Credit shares our commitment to innovation, speed, and fraud prevention,' said Tarry Shebesta, CEO of FlexPath DXP. 'This integration shows what's possible when two agile partners collaborate to raise the bar for identity-verified credit prequalification.' Darrel Schulte, CEO of Agility Credit, added: 'We're excited to partner with FlexPath DXP to support a more secure, streamlined credit prequalification process. Agility is committed to enabling technology solutions that empower dealers to make smarter, faster decisions —and VeriQual helps us deliver on that mission.' VeriQual users can now take advantage of Agility's credit and compliance solutions within FlexPath's unified platform—enabling identity validation, lead qualification, and credit insights. Key Benefits of the Integration: Identity verification + soft-pull prequalification in one step Soft-pull access to Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax via Agility Credit Lower form abandonment than traditional prequalification tools Hi-Engagement Lead Marking to prioritize follow up CRM-ready clean leads for faster engagement and funding As FlexPath continues to expand its network of technology partners and credit bureau access points, this integration reinforces its mission to help dealers improve lead quality, reduce risk, and protect their bottom line. To learn more visit About FlexPath DXP FlexPath DXP is a Digital Experience Platform, with deep roots in online sales and marketing, developing revolutionary fintech solutions that enable organizations to deliver personalized and targeted marketing, enhance customer experiences, and drive efficiencies and value for all parties involved. Its flagship product, VeriQual™, is the first line of defense against fraud in credit prequalification. About Agility Credit Agility Credit is a leading provider of modern credit bureau access solutions, empowering automotive, fintech, and lending partners with seamless soft-pull technology for faster, smarter financing decisions. Through its powerful API-driven platform, Agility simplifies access to credit data while also offering robust support for hard pulls, identity verification, and compliance—helping clients deliver streamlined, secure, and consumer-friendly credit experiences.
RNZ News
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- RNZ News
Casey Kopua marks Diamonds shooting combo in shock netball return
Casey Kopua in her Suncorp Super Netball debut. Photo: Brendon Thorne Former Silver Fern Casey Kopua got a full game in the world's toughest netball league, six years after retiring. The Giants stunned the netball world when they announced that Kopua would join the injury depleted team for this weekend's Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) game against the Melbourne Vixens in Sydney. Kopua retired from elite netball after helping the Silver Ferns win the 2019 Netball World Cup in Liverpool, when she was named MVP of the final. Apart from the odd club game in Matamata and one-off indoor netball tournaments, that's been it for Kopua in the years since. The mother of three has kept herself fit but it was an extraordinary sight seeing the 39-year-old make her debut in the world's strongest league, after that amount of time away from elite netball. Casey Kopua in the final of the 2019 World Cup. Photo: PHOTOSPORT The Giants, who are languishing at the bottom of SSN, suffered another loss on Sunday but pushed their opponents for three quarters before the Vixens prevailed 71-61. Kopua said she was shocked to be named in the starting line-up. She played a full game at goal keep and was marking none other than the Australian Diamonds goal shoot Sophie Garbin. Vixens goal attack Kiera Austin often pairs with Garbin in the Diamonds shooting end and neither had ever played against Kopua. The Giants got off to a fast start and the Vixens feeders were wary of Kopua and her reputation as one of the greats of the game. The former Silver Ferns captain played 112 Tests for New Zealand. Kopua finished with just a couple of deflections but her presence in the circle and pressure over the shot, did put some hesitation into the minds of the Vixens. Former Magic team-mates Jo Harten (left) and Casey Kopua - reunited at the Giants. Photo: Supplied Kopua constantly talked to and encouraged young Giants goal defence Erin O'Brien. Giants coach Julie Fitzgerald coached Kopua at the Magic in the former trans-Tasman competition. Kopua also played with Giants stalwarts Jo Harten and Jamie-Lee Price at the Magic. Kopua only arrived in Sydney in the middle of the week, after Fitzgerald put out an SOS to her former player. Today's game was also the first time Kopua has played under the two-point shot rule innovation. Casey Kopua is embraced by former Australian Diamond, turned commentator Catherine Cox. Photo: Giants Instagram The Giants led 19-15 after the first quarter and held a two goal lead at half time. But the Vixens took a two goal lead at the final break and put their foot down in the final quarter. At half-time Kopua told Fox Sport that the SSN was what she expected. " …and a whole lot more, it's a lot of fun though playing with different girls and the Aussie style but just getting amongst it, it's awesome," Kopua said. She said she couldn't say no to Fitzgerald. "There's not many people I would have said yes to but I'm loving it and the girls are lovely and we're having a good time on court." It's not known yet if Kopua will stay on as a replacement player for the Giants for the rest of the season. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
