On Tuesday morning, the baker in town asked if he could take a selfie with him.
By Thursday, strangers were slipping handwritten letters into his mailbox, asking for “just a small helping hand.”
By Sunday, the retired electrician who had quietly played the lottery for twenty years was hiding behind his curtains, phone turned off, bank app open… and heart racing.
A week earlier, he had woken up with €71.5 million in his online lottery account.
Seven days later, after a handful of taps, a notification, and one fatal “validation,” the money was gone.
Vanished.
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A dream jackpot, a single app, and one week of madness
He didn’t scream when he saw the amount.
He stared.
“Seventy-one million, five hundred thousand” repeated the robotic lottery voice in his head as he checked the numbers again on his phone, palms sweating over the cracked screen.
He was 69, living alone in a modest house on the outskirts of a small French town, his biggest luxury until then being a new kettle.
In the space of one notification, his life had tipped into another dimension.
The one where banks call you “sir” a little more politely, and your neighbors suddenly remember your first name.
The first days felt like a fever dream.
The national lottery operator called to confirm the win.
The adviser on the phone used a calm, trained tone, the kind used for people who are about to stop thinking clearly.
He downloaded the official app they recommended to “manage his prize securely” from home.
He created a password, set up transfers, and started to play with figures that didn’t look real to him anyway.
He talked to his son on video call, promising to “change everything” for the family.
He slept badly, but he was convinced he was being responsible.
Then came the avalanche of noise.
People told him what he “should” do: invest, donate, buy, diversify, hide.
His head was spinning.
On the fifth day, an email arrived that looked exactly like the previous official ones.
Same logo, same colors, same reassuring wording.
It invited him to “link a secure investment app to optimize the management of his jackpot.”
He clicked, downloaded, connected his bank, and entered the codes he had been told never to share.
By the time his real adviser got through to him days later, every cent of the €71.5 million had been siphoned off.
All from his phone.
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# Spain Transforms Engineering Challenge into New Water Power Source Without Turbines
Spain has developed an innovative approach to generating electricity from water that does not rely on traditional turbines. This breakthrough addresses a longstanding engineering problem while creating a new method for renewable energy production. The technology works by using the natural pressure of water in existing pipeline systems. Instead of installing conventional hydroelectric equipment that requires turbines and significant infrastructure changes the system captures energy directly from water flowing through pipes that are already in place. Engineers designed the solution to work with municipal water supply networks & irrigation systems. These networks already move large volumes of water under pressure from higher elevations to lower areas. The new technology taps into this existing flow without disrupting normal water delivery operations. The system converts the kinetic energy and pressure of moving water into electrical power through a different mechanism than standard hydroelectric plants. It can be installed at various points along a water distribution network where pressure needs to be reduced anyway. This means it generates electricity while performing a function that would otherwise waste energy. Several Spanish cities have begun testing the technology in their water systems. Early results show that it can produce meaningful amounts of electricity without requiring dams or affecting water quality. The installations are also smaller & less expensive than traditional hydroelectric facilities. This approach offers particular advantages for regions with extensive water infrastructure but limited options for large-scale hydroelectric projects. It provides a way to generate clean energy from resources that are already being managed for other purposes. The development represents a practical solution that turns an everyday engineering requirement into an opportunity for renewable energy generation. By working with existing systems rather than building new ones, it reduces both costs and environmental impact while adding to the renewable energy supply.
The plant that grows well without water enjoys hot weather and attracts many butterflies to your yard. However some gardeners consider it an invasive species that could become a serious problem. This hardy plant has become popular among homeowners who want a beautiful garden without spending much time on maintenance. It can survive long periods of drought and actually performs better in warm climates. The colorful flowers draw butterflies & other pollinators throughout the growing season. Despite these attractive qualities the plant has a controversial reputation in gardening communities. Critics warn that it spreads aggressively & can take over native plant populations. Once established it produces numerous seeds that germinate easily & the root system grows quickly to crowd out other vegetation. Some regions have added this species to their invasive plant watch lists. Garden centers in certain areas no longer sell it due to environmental concerns. Local extension offices receive complaints from property owners who struggle to remove it after initial planting. Supporters argue that proper management prevents problems. They suggest planting it in contained areas or removing seed heads before they mature. Regular monitoring can keep the plant from spreading beyond intended boundaries. The debate continues between those who appreciate its low maintenance beauty and those who fear its potential to disrupt local ecosystems. Gardeners must weigh the benefits of drought tolerance and pollinator attraction against the risk of uncontrolled spread. Checking with local agricultural authorities before planting can help determine whether this species is appropriate for your specific region.
# HVAC Engineers Recommend This Thermostat Schedule for Maximum Savings
Setting your thermostat correctly can significantly reduce your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable. HVAC professionals have developed proven schedules that balance comfort with efficiency throughout the day & across different seasons.
## Understanding Thermostat Programming Basics
Modern programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for various times of day. This automation means you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty house. The key is finding the sweet spot between comfort and conservation. Most HVAC systems work most efficiently when they maintain steady temperatures rather than constantly cycling on & off. However, allowing temperatures to drift when nobody is home saves more energy than any efficiency gains from constant operation.
## The Ideal Winter Thermostat Schedule
During colder months HVAC engineers suggest following this daily pattern for optimal savings:
**Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM):** Set your thermostat to 68-70°F as household members wake up and prepare for the day. This comfortable temperature helps everyone start their morning without feeling chilly.
**Daytime (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM):** Lower the temperature to 62-65°F if everyone leaves for work or school. Each degree you lower your thermostat can save approximately 3% on heating costs. An empty house doesn’t need full heating.
**Evening (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM):** Raise the temperature back to 68-70°F when people return home. This ensures comfort during the most active hours when families gather for dinner and activities.
**Night (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM):** Drop the temperature to 62-66°F while sleeping. Most people sleep better in cooler environments and blankets provide warmth without running the heater.
## The Ideal Summer Thermostat Schedule
Warm weather requires a different approach to maximize air conditioning efficiency:
**Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM):** Set your thermostat to 72-75°F to maintain comfort as people get ready for their day.
**Daytime (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM):** Increase the temperature to 78-80°F when the house is empty. Your air conditioner will run less frequently and your energy bills will drop noticeably.
**Evening (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM):** Lower the setting back to 72-75°F for comfortable evening hours when everyone is home and active.
**Night (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM):** Set the thermostat to 75-78°F overnight. Slightly warmer temperatures during sleep hours still feel comfortable and reduce cooling costs.
## Weekend and Holiday Adjustments
Your schedule should adapt when people stay home during weekends or holidays. Maintain the comfortable temperature ranges throughout the day rather than implementing the daytime setback. However, keep the nighttime temperature adjustments since they provide savings without sacrificing comfort.
## Smart Thermostat Advantages
Smart thermostats take programming to the next level by learning your patterns and adjusting automatically. These devices can detect when you leave home and adjust temperatures accordingly. Many models also provide energy usage reports that help you understand your consumption patterns. Remote access through smartphone apps means you can adjust settings from anywhere. If you’re coming home early or staying out late you can modify the schedule without wasting energy or returning to an uncomfortable house.
## Additional Energy Saving Tips
Beyond following the recommended schedule, several other practices can boost your savings:
Regular maintenance keeps your HVAC system running efficiently. Change air filters monthly and schedule professional tune-ups twice yearly. Clean systems use less energy and last longer. Ceiling fans help distribute air throughout your home. Running fans allows you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher in summer or lower in winter while maintaining the same comfort level. Proper insulation prevents heated or cooled air from escaping. Check your attic, walls and windows for air leaks. Sealing gaps & adding insulation reduces the workload on your HVAC system. Window treatments provide another layer of temperature control. Close curtains during hot summer days to block solar heat. Open them during winter days to let sunshine warm your home naturally.
## Common Thermostat Mistakes to Avoid
Many homeowners make errors that waste energy and money. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Never crank your thermostat to extreme temperatures thinking it will heat or cool faster. HVAC systems work at the same speed regardless of the setting. You’ll just overshoot your target temperature & waste energy. Don’t place thermostats near heat sources, drafty windows or in direct sunlight. These locations give false readings that cause your system to run incorrectly. Avoid frequent manual adjustments that override your programmed schedule. Constant changes prevent your system from operating efficiently and eliminate the benefits of programming.
## Calculating Your Potential Savings
The Department of Energy estimates that proper thermostat management can save up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs. For a household spending $2000 yearly on climate control, that represents $200 in savings. Your actual savings depend on several factors including your local climate, home size, insulation quality and energy rates. Homes in extreme climates with significant temperature swings between occupied and unoccupied settings will see the largest benefits.
## Making the Transition
Switching to a new thermostat schedule requires some adjustment. Start by implementing the changes gradually over a week or two. This allows household members to adapt and lets you fine-tune settings based on actual comfort levels. Track your energy bills for several months after implementing the new schedule. Compare them to previous years during the same seasons to measure your actual savings. Most people find the minor comfort adjustments worthwhile once they see lower utility costs. Following these HVAC engineer recommendations provides a practical path to reducing energy consumption without sacrificing home comfort. The combination of smart scheduling and good habits creates lasting savings that benefit both your wallet and the environment.
The discreet traps hidden behind “easy” money management
On paper, the retiree had followed the rules.
He used an app.
He trusted the “digital journey” designed for winners who prefer to stay home rather than walk into a TV studio with a giant check.
The thing is, that same journey is now criss-crossed by fake pages, cloned apps, and lookalike emails that fool even people who’ve been online for years.
For a 69‑year‑old who had never used anything more complicated than Facebook and a weather app, it was like handing over the keys to a Ferrari and saying, “You’ll figure it out.”
The road looked straight.
The cliff wasn’t signposted.
Cybercrime units say that lottery winners have become “priority targets.”
Criminals watch public announcements, check local news, scrape social networks, and then launch ultra-personalized attacks.
Fake “lottery adviser” numbers appear on search results.
Malicious apps slip into app stores with nearly identical names.
Emails copy every pixel of the real templates, right down to the legal footers.
The retiree had no reason to doubt.
He downloaded the suggested “financial partner” app from a link in an email his brain had already labeled as safe.
Within seconds, he was staring at a screen that asked him, calmly and professionally, to “authenticate” his bank and lottery account.
He did it.
It felt like routine.
The logic of the scam is cold and simple.
You receive a life-changing sum.
You are overwhelmed, euphoric, and frightened at the same time.
Your relationship to risk is upside down: what’s a password compared to €71.5 million?
Fraudsters know that during those few days, your vigilance is at its lowest precisely when the stakes are at their highest.
Police reports show the same pattern in similar cases: a message “from the bank,” an app “from the provider,” a request “from the notary.”
Each step looks like a normal administrative formality.
Each step is actually a transfer of control.
*The cruel part is that, technically, you pressed the buttons yourself.*
Turning your phone from weak spot into safety net
The quiet, unglamorous move that would have saved that retiree?
Freezing everything for 48 hours.
No new apps.
No new “investment opportunities.”
Nothing that involves entering codes, linking accounts, or confirming large transfers.
The healthiest reflex when a huge sum arrives is to call your bank on the official number printed on your card and say one simple sentence:
“I’ve just received a very large amount, I don’t understand how all this works, I want you to slow everything down.”
From there, ask for written, physical confirmation of every important step.
Slowness becomes your shield.
We’ve all been there, that moment when you’re so excited you skip the boring part of the instructions.
With money, that reflex becomes lethal.
The common traps are the same over and over: clicking on links in emails, downloading apps from buttons instead of searching for them yourself in the official store, entering passwords “just this once” because the page looks reassuring.
Let’s be honest: nobody really reads every small security warning that pops up on their screen.
Yet one tiny fake detail often reveals the scam: a spelling mistake in the company name, a domain that ends in “.net” instead of “.fr”, a support number that doesn’t match the one on your official paperwork.
The real skill today isn’t “being good with technology.”
It’s daring to say, “I don’t understand, I’ll check with someone I trust.”
“Winning the lottery didn’t destroy me,” the retiree later told an investigator.
“What destroyed me was being ashamed of not understanding the app.
So I pretended I understood.”
- First step: freeze big decisions
Wait a few days before moving or investing large sums.
Huge emotions and clear thinking rarely go together. - Call from the back of your bank card
Use only the numbers printed on your physical documents.
Never trust a number from an email or a pop‑up. - Install apps the hard way
Open your store (App Store, Google Play).
Search the app name manually instead of following a link. - Create a “money buddy” pact
Choose one calm person in your life.
Decide that no big money decision is made without a phone call to them first. - Keep one “offline” step
For amounts that scare you, demand at least one face‑to‑face meeting or a letter.
If someone insists everything must be “urgent” and “online only,” walk away.
What this sad jackpot story quietly says about all of us
The retiree’s case sounds extreme because of the staggering amount involved, yet under the surface it echoes much smaller scenes.
The parent who clicks a fake parcel text.
The teen who gives banking details to a bogus discount app.
The middle‑aged worker who approves a “routine” transfer that empties a savings account.
The scale changes, the mechanism stays.
Money arrives or is promised.
Emotions swell.
Technology speaks a language we half‑understand, so we nod along and hope for the best.
This story isn’t really about a man who lost €71.5 million.
It’s about the unspoken shame people feel when faced with tools that rule their lives but still confuse them.
The shame that keeps them from asking, double‑checking, or saying “no” when a screen insists on “yes.”
If you share this with someone you love, you’re not scaring them.
You’re giving them permission to be wary, slow, and stubborn when everything around them is shouting “fast, easy, instant.”
Sometimes the only real luxury is time — the time you take before you tap “confirm.”
| Key point | Detail | Value for the reader |
|---|---|---|
| Pause before acting | Impose a 24–48 hour delay before any big financial decision made via app | Reduces impulsive mistakes during emotional highs |
| Verify through offline channels | Call only the official numbers printed on bank or lottery documents | Bypasses fake emails, cloned apps, and spoofed websites |
| Share the burden | Choose a trusted “money buddy” to review major operations | Adds a calm second brain when yours is overwhelmed |
FAQ:
- Can a lottery win really be lost through an app?
Yes. Fraudsters use fake banking or lottery apps, phishing emails, and cloned websites.
Once you enter your codes on a fraudulent interface, they can transfer funds out faster than your bank can react.- What is the safest way to manage a large lottery prize?
Contact the lottery operator directly using official numbers, then your bank.
Ask for a dedicated adviser, written procedures, and the option to validate major operations in person or by registered mail.- How can I tell if a financial app is genuine?
Download it by searching its name in the official store, check the publisher name, read recent reviews, and compare contact details with those on your paper statements.
If in doubt, call your bank before connecting any account.- What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?
Immediately call your bank’s emergency number, block your cards, and request a freeze on transfers.
Then file a report with the police or national cybercrime unit, and keep every email, screenshot, and reference number.- Is it wrong to ask for help with money and apps?
No. It’s a sign of prudence.
Banks, notaries, and serious operators are used to customers who aren’t comfortable with digital tools and can offer alternative, slower, safer paths.
