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Stop Fraud at the Bank Counter: Techie Nesters Calls on Canada’s Banks to Step Up

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COLLINGWOOD, ON, Dec. 20, 2024 /CNW/ – As online fraud and scams targeting older adults reach alarming levels, Techie Nesters, a trusted advocate for older adults, is calling on Canada’s banks to take more active steps to stop fraud before it’s too late.

Despite free fraud support calls and educational sessions at community hubs like Collingwood’s Leisure Time Club, fraudsters continue to exploit seniors, often using tactics that lead them directly to the bank counter. According to Techie Nesters Founder & Chief Compassion Officer, Jenn Gerynowicz, the fight against fraud requires immediate intervention:

“Fraud can happen to anyone—even those equipped with knowledge about what to watch for. Stress, panic, or confusion in tough economic times make seniors especially vulnerable. Banks have the opportunity to step in as the last line of defense before their money is gone forever.”

The Last Stop Before the Scam: The Bank Counter

When fraud involves in-person cash withdrawals, the bank is often the last chance to intervene. Techie Nesters has engaged with bank managers and found some positive practices—fraud prevention pamphlets, revised teller scripts, and ATM warnings. However, much more can be done to protect seniors from devastating scams:

Signage Issues: Many banks focus counter signage on promotions like card-linking discounts rather than critical fraud warnings.

Missed Opportunities: Questions like, “Has someone sent you here to take cash to a Bitcoin machine?” are missing from in-branch messaging. 

“Imagine if the signage at the bank counter directly addressed common scam tactics and talked overtly about bitcoin,” says Gerynowicz. “Instead of promoting rewards programs, they could literally save someone’s life savings by asking the right questions.”

The Hidden Burden: Financial Theft and Unfair Bank Practices

Seniors victimized by theft often face further harm from banks imposing high fees and interest rates on negative balances caused by fraud.

“Imagine having your life savings stolen, and instead of support, you’re hit with endless penalties on money you didn’t even spend,” says Gerynowicz. “These punitive fees are devastating for seniors on fixed incomes, often causing missed payments and compounding debt.”

Techie Nesters is calling on banks to waive these fees for fraud victims, implement policies that prevent further harm, and provide specialized teams to assist older adults in recovering financially after theft.

A Real-Life Example

Take the case of Mary (name changed for privacy), an older adult who recently reached out to Techie Nesters after believing she had fallen victim to a scam. Hackers had deposited a cash advance from her Visa card into her chequing account, convincing her it was an accidental overpayment. She was instructed to withdraw the funds in cash and repay them via a Bitcoin machine at a local convenience store. Despite having a small balance, the scammers manipulated her into withdrawing $3,000, an amount far beyond her typical activity.

Mary shared, “I was very disappointed by my bank’s lack of interest or cooperation. I have been with them for over six decades and was treated with a lack of respect—even to the point of hanging up on Techie Nesters who I authorized to speak for me while I was crying and panicking about the loss of money. The bank should have flagged that I’m not in the habit of taking cash advances. They didn’t ask me why I was withdrawing such a large amount in cash, and when I was told by the scammers to say it was for Christmas presents, no one questioned it. So many opportunities to stop this scam were missed.”

When Techie Nesters attempted to advocate for Mary with her bank, the institution refused to cooperate, leaving her to pay interest on the cash advance. Adding insult to injury, Mary found herself unable to transfer funds between her Visa and chequing accounts to cover overdraft fees—a process the scammers had completed without her knowledge or approval.

Mary added, “The bank needs people who are supportive, patient, and equipped to deal with seniors who have been scammed. They need to explain the steps they will take to help, instead of treating compassionate companies like Techie Nesters, who are there to assist, with such disregard.”

Techie Nesters’ Call to Action for Banks

The need for banks to act is now, especially during the holiday season, when scams targeting seniors tend to increase. Techie Nesters is urging banks across Canada to adopt these straightforward measures to protect seniors:

Fraud Alert Signage:

Place visible, direct signs at bank counters and ATMs asking questions like:

“Are you here today because someone told you to take out cash?””Are you being asked to send money to a Bitcoin machine?””Did someone instruct you to say the money is for Christmas presents or Home Improvements?”

     2. Branch-Level and Nationwide Advertising Campaigns:

Launch bold campaigns with clear messaging:

“Bitcoin payments? It’s a scam.””Gift cards are common fraud cards.””Pause. Think. Protect your money.”

     3. Dedicated Customer Service Representatives in Line-Ups:

Assign trained fraud prevention reps to engage with customers in line. Casual conversations can flag potential scams before the transaction occurs.

Techie Nesters: Immediate Support for Older Adults

Techie Nesters offers free calls for older adults unsure about suspicious online requests, emails, or phone calls at 1-833-613-N-E-S-T (6378). Their community education sessions empower seniors and their families to recognize red flags before it’s too late.

“We meet older adults where they are, both online and in person, but we can’t fight this battle alone,” says Gerynowicz. “We need banks to step up in this fight.”

Join the Movement This Christmas

Techie Nesters believes Canada’s banks can make a monumental difference by implementing these simple measures, especially since the holiday season is a time when seniors are particularly vulnerable to scams. Together, we can protect Canada’s older adults from fraud and ensure they are treated with the dignity and care they deserve.

For more information about Techie Nesters and their work to help older adults age well, visit www.techienesters.com.

About Techie Nesters:

Techie Nesters is a virtual retirement community dedicated to helping older adults stay connected, live independently or interdependently in their own homes longer, and foster meaningful social connections. Through education, technology integration, community engagement, and a network of supportive members, Techie Nesters empowers older adults to age well. Members assist each other with household tasks, errands, and transportation services, reducing financial burdens and promoting a sense of community.

SOURCE Techie Nesters Inc.

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The Ultimate Send-off to Summer: CSTS Debuts Global Entertainment IP PremierX at New York’s Pier 17, Ushering in a New Era of Live Entertainment

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CSTS Enterprises (‘CSTS’), a New York-based sports, entertainment, integrated media and travel technology group, today announced the official launch of PremierXTM, its flagship live entertainment brand, with a landmark Halloween Weekend event “AFTER DARK” at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in New York on October 30, 2026.

Capping off Seaport’s 2026 Summer Season in unforgettable fashion, the grand finale brings a powerhouse lineup of stars to the PremierXTM stage at Pier 17, featuring Lil Xan, Armani White, DJ Soda, Nate Wyatt, and surprise A-list guest headliners. Set against the iconic Manhattan skyline, the landmark eventing unites chart-topping hip-hop and high-octane electronic music for a festival-grade experience as The Rooftop at Pier 17 transforms into the city’s premier live music destination.

Building on the momentum of the PremierXTM After Party for the 2026 World Cup Final that took place in New York on July 19th, “AFTER DARK” signals the official debut of PremierXTM, a proprietary, New York – born global entertainment IP created by CSTS to deliver defining cultural experiences at the intersection of music, sport, art and lifestyle. Centred on the power of cultural crossover, PremierXTM serves as an international bridge connecting East and West, modern innovation and timeless classical, while uniting world-class artists, creators, performers and audiences through the universal language of entertainment and premium live experiences.

The launch also marks the beginning of a promising relationship with Pier 17, providing a world-class stage for PremierXTM to accelerate its growth in the U.S. and engage international audiences over the long term. By combining PremierXTM’s global entertainment vision with Pier 17’s iconic waterfront setting, the partnership aims to create a premier destination for live experiences, empowering both platforms to expand their global reach, deepen audience engagement, and drive sustainable growth.

As a key pillar of CSTS’ integrated ecosystem spanning entertainment, sports, travel, integrated media and marketing solutions, PremierXTM further strengthens the Group’s ability to create high-impact experiences that connect audiences, destinations and brand partners. With the global live entertainment market projected to grow from approximately US$203 billion in 2025 to US$270 billion by 2030[1], PremierXTM is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for premium, experience-led entertainment while creating long-term value to the Group through recurring audience engagement, tourism and brand partnerships.

“PremierX TM represents a significant milestone in CSTS’ evolution from a leading operator of global sports and hospitality platforms into a creator of world-class entertainment experiences,” said Abel Zhao, Group CEO and Executive Director at CSTS Enterprises. “The season finale at Pier17 marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for CSTS as we expand our entertainment footprint and introduce a platform designed to deliver iconic live experiences and bring together artists and audiences from across the globe.”

“PremierXTM was built from the ground up as a bespoke platform to champion multicultural talent and visionary creative performers.” said Jason Liu, Regional Director of CSTS USA. “Starting from New York, we are building a scalable global brand that brings iconic live experiences to audiences worldwide while expanding our presence across key entertainment hubs in North America, Asia and Europe.”

Following its New York launch, PremierXTM plans to expand through a broader international rollout across North America, Asia and Europe, with future editions planned as part of a growing network of recurring live entertainment properties and flagship cultural events.

For ticket information on PremierXTM: “AFTER DARK”, visit
https://www.axs.com/events/1644912/after-dark-tickets

About CSTS Enterprises

CSTS Enterprises is an integrated media, entertainment, sports, and travel technology group. Headquartered in New York City, the company develops and partners with intellectual properties and brands to deliver compelling experiences that connect with audiences across the world. In addition to its own initiatives, including Generation CTM and PremierXTM, it collaborates with international IPs including FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and Formula 1.

CSTS integrates experiential marketing, travel, data, and technology to deliver seamless end-to-end audience experiences. The company engages consumers across physical events and digital channels, executing at scale worldwide, turning complex activations into co-ordinated, measurable outcomes.

[1] Source: Industry research by Markets and Markets, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030, Live Entertainment Market Size, Share, Latest Trends & Growth Analysis, 2025-2030.

 

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SOURCE CSTS Enterprises

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Swanson Vitamins Launches Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro to Champion Registered Dietitians and Licensed Nutritionists at Every Stage of Their Careers

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October 24, 2026

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New network for health and nutrition professionals offers CPEU-accredited continuing education, profession-wide promotion, practicum support and exam scholarships

FARGO, N.D., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Swanson Vitamins today launched Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, a network for health and nutrition professionals. The new initiative champions registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists through every stage of their careers, from students to providers with decades of experience. Created by nutrition professionals for nutrition professionals, Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers educational resources, incentives and investments to support practitioners who share Swanson’s commitment to uncompromising integrity.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro offers tailored resources for both practicing professionals and students. For practicing registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists, the program provides CPEU-accredited continuing education, along with profession-wide promotion of the experts who guide consumers’ wellness decisions. For dietetics and nutrition students, Swanson is investing in the next generation of the profession through practicum support and scholarships toward licensing or credentialing exam fees.

As consumers take a more active role in their health, they are increasingly turning to registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists for accurate, science-backed guidance. Through Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, Swanson aims to help nutrition professionals strengthen their credentials and build expertise in areas where consumers are seeking trusted nutritional support.

“Since 1969, we have been committed to uncompromising integrity in service of everyone’s journey to real wellness, and we believe real wellness starts with the experts who guide it,” said Erin Del Ponte, EVP Brand Marketing at Swanson Vitamins. “Registered dietitians and licensed nutritionists translate nutrition science into practical, personalized guidance that helps people make informed decisions about their health. With Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro, we are proud to support these professionals at every stage of their careers, from students preparing for their credentialing exams to seasoned providers building expertise in the areas that matter most to consumers today.”

Swanson Nexus Pro program highlights

CPEU-accredited continuing education for registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsProfession-wide promotion of registered dietitians and licensed nutritionistsPracticum support for dietetics and nutrition studentsScholarships to help offset licensing or credentialing exam fees

Applications for Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro are open and can be submitted HERE. Additional details, including scholarship award amounts and practicum support details, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Swanson Vitamins Nexus Pro was introduced at the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ annual conference, held Oct. 24-27 in San Antonio. This initiative builds on Swanson’s longstanding commitment to the nutrition and dietetics community and reflects the company’s continued investment in the professionals who help consumers make informed choices on their journey to real wellness.

Media Assets
Photos HERE

About Swanson Vitamins
Since 1969, Swanson Vitamins has offered high-quality, science-backed vitamins and supplements rooted in one simple belief: proof over promise. Nearly six decades before “wellness” became an industry, Swanson was pioneering trustworthy supplement offerings and upholding uncompromising quality standards through intentional sourcing, rigorous in-house and third-party testing and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Today, Swanson is a Certified GMP Facility recognized by NSF, backed by an in-house team of nutritionists, dietitians, scientists, chemists and pharmacists with a combined 250-plus years of experience. With more than 1,300 products across 36 categories, Swanson doesn’t chase trends. It sets standards for integrity, quality and clarity in the supplement industry.

Swanson products are available at SwansonVitamins.com, Amazon and iHerb.com. Learn more at SwansonVitamins.com or follow @swansonvitamins on Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lauren Torrez, Crowe PR
ltorrez@crowepr.com 

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SOURCE Swanson Vitamins

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Technology Drives the Future of Travel: JETOUR Continues to Expand Its “Travel+” Ecosystem

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October 24, 2026

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WUHU, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Expectations for travel are evolving: vehicles are no longer simply a means of reaching a destination, but travel companions that bring people closer to nature, serving as a “mobile third space.”

JETOUR continues to advance its “Travel+” strategy, integrating technological innovation, product development, and ecosystem building into real travel scenarios. From October 20 to 23, the 2026 JETOUR Global Technology Experience Day, themed “Future Travel Starts Now,” takes place across Wuhu, Anhui and Moganshan, Zhejiang, featuring technology experiences, on-road driving, outdoor living, and conservation activities.

Technological Innovation: Expanding the Possibilities of Travel

Backed by the Group’s expertise in AI, intelligent driving, smart cabins, and AiMOGA Robotics, JETOUR turns cutting-edge technology into experiences users can genuinely feel. The XWD Fully Automatic Intelligent 4WD, with 7+X one-touch modes, tackles mountain roads, gravel, and water crossings, while the GAIA All-Terrain Intelligent Architecture adapts to diverse terrain and C-DM hybrid technology balances performance with efficiency. On October 21, models with these technologies take on mountain-road test drives at Moganshan.

A Diverse Product Lineup: Enriching the Travel Experience

The G700 combines premium comfort with hardcore off-road capability, while the T1 and T2 suit both urban driving and light off-road adventures. Roof tents, onboard refrigerators, and other ecosystem equipment turn the vehicle into an all-round companion. JETOUR also hosts a camping market and a Starry Night Forum, bringing product features into real travel settings.

Ecosystem: Extending the Value of Travel

Travel is about understanding cultures and protecting nature as well as exploration. Participants visit Xiazhu Lake in Zhejiang for a crested ibis conservation initiative. Globally, JETOUR supports cheetah conservation in Africa, turtle conservation in Malaysia, harpy eagle conservation in Panama, and protection of Pakistan’s national animal, the markhor.

JETOUR has also partnered with Chile’s Colo-Colo, FIBA, and the Malaysia Marathon, broadening engagement with local culture, sport, and communities — giving “Travel+” an ever richer meaning.

JETOUR now joins travelers worldwide across city, mountain, and wetland, exploring new possibilities through the deeper integration of technology and travel.

ABOUT JETOUR

Launched in 2018, JETOUR follows the “Travel+” strategy and has entered over 100 countries and regions, with 2,000+ sales and after-sales outlets. Its lineup includes the T Series for light off-road and the G Series for the premium luxury off-road market, covering urban commuting, family road trips, outdoor camping, and long-distance journeys.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/technology-drives-the-future-of-travel-jetour-continues-to-expand-its-travel-ecosystem-302918650.html

SOURCE JETOUR

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