Free forum to help New England seniors stay safe from scams

Seniors across the New England region are being encouraged to attend a free forum on 26 August to learn how to protect themselves from increasingly sophisticated scams.

Council on the Ageing NSW will host the Staying Safe from Scams forum at Wests’ Diggers Club in Tamworth, providing practical advice to help older people recognise common scams, safeguard their personal information and know what to do if something doesn’t feel right.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the forum would provide valuable support for seniors in the local community.

“Older Australians have spent a lifetime building their savings to support their retirement and their families. They shouldn’t have to spend their older years worrying about what scams are lurking around the corner,” Anderson said.

“Predatory scammers prey on trust, kindness and confusion which is why they target older people who could be vulnerable to sophisticated scams. It’s so important that people give themselves the knowledge and the tools to protect themselves.

“The Council on the Ageing’s Staying Safe from Scams session is a great opportunity to learn the tools you need to protect yourself, and I thank Council on the Ageing NSW and sponsor ANZ for bringing this important forum to Tamworth.”

Council on the Ageing NSW chief executive officer Gohar Yazdabadi said older people deserved to feel confident and safe in an increasingly digital world.

“Scams are becoming more sophisticated, but knowledge is one of the best forms of protection. Our Staying Safe from Scams sessions provide practical advice to help older people recognise common scams, protect themselves and know what to do if something doesn’t feel right,” Yazdabadi said.

“We encourage older people, their families and carers to come along and learn how to stay one step ahead of scammers.”

Registrations are now open via the Staying Safe from Scams website. People can also contact Council on the Ageing NSW on (02) 9286 3860 to register.