COTA NSW event aims to help seniors avoid online scams

The Council on the Ageing (COTA) NSW is partnering with the National Anti-Scam Centre and ScamWatch for an important and timely free event aimed at equipping older people to better protect against scams.

The in-person event on Thursday 26 June will feature presentations from leaders in the field who will share information and advice on the importance of the stop, check, and protect message.

Older Australians consistently report much higher losses due to scams than any other group. Whether it is from the theft of personal, financial or security details, or investment or romance scams, it is better to be safe than scammed.

"Anyone can be scammed. But in 2024, people aged 65 and over reported nearly $100 million in losses to scams - more than any other age group," says Jayde Richmond, General Manager of the ACCC's Anti-Scam Centre. “In this presentation with COTA NSW, I’ll explain how ‘Stop. Check. Protect.’ can help you stay safe from scams and make Australia an even harder target for scammers."

Monash University’s Dr Kate Gould will also present insights from her work with scam survivors. The CYBERABILITY Project highlights the stories of people who have been scammed to help others avoid and recover from fraud.

"Scammers are criminals who use sophisticated methods including technology and psychology to manipulate people into believing their lies. As a result, it is becoming harder for everyone to detect and avoid scams. It is important to learn how to stay safe, as well as strategies to support each other practically and emotionally if we have been scammed," says Dr Gould.

“We're delighted to be partnering with these trusted organisations and speakers to present this event," says COTA NSW Chief Executive Officer, Gohar Yazdabadi. “As the peak organisation for older people in NSW we want to ensure that everyone can be digitally included and be supported and safe online, no matter their age."

ENDS