Grandkids to the rescue in push to protect elderly from cyber scams

Grandchildren are being urged by the Australian Federal Police to help seniors learn their “ABCs” to stay safe online and stop being scammed.

Grandchildren are being urged by the Australian Federal Police to help seniors learn their “ABCs” to stay safe online and stop being scammed.

Seniors are being told to avoid clicking links sent in unsolicited email or text; blocking calls on mobile devices from suspected scammers; and calling financial institutions immediately if they identify a suspicious transaction.

As part of Cyber Awareness Month, the AFP will also share with National Seniors Australia 90-second videos explaining how the public can help stay a step ahead of cyber criminals.

Police are urging grandchildren to watch the videos with their grandparents.

AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner Cyber Command Paula Hudson said younger family or friends who had grown up with technology could give some of the best tips.

“Grandchildren – whether they are 20 or 40 years old – can be one of the greatest lines of defence for older generations when it comes to the online world,” she said.

“Today, we are asking Australians to have conversations with grandparents or parents about simple things they can do to protect themselves.

“One example could be showing seniors how to block a scam call on an iPhone. If you received a phone call or a text message that is clearly a scam – such as those claiming to be from a financial institution, utility company or a service you do not use – we advise you hang up immediately.” Ms Hudson said people should block unknown callers.

“And the videos we have released are only 90 seconds long,” she said.

“It would be great if grandkids could watch the videos with their nan, and pop, nonno or nonna, or baba or deda.

“It also gives an opportunity for younger generations to brush up on their knowledge.

“ What we have found in the past is that some older Australians who have become the victim of cybercrime become embarrassed and blame themselves. Often they do not tell anyone and that’s what we need to change.

“We do not want any victim of crime to be ashamed. These tips and videos will hopefully empower all generations to stay cyber safe because any one at any age can be targeted by cybercrime. This is also a good reminder for all Australians of any age to be mindful of their cyber security.”

National Seniors chief operating officer Chris Grice said their own research showed older people less familiar with digital technology were most likely to report being scammed.

“Fear of scamming prevents many from engaging online,’’ he said.

“As one 70-year-old commented, ‘There are so many scams and hackers on digital services I would feel unsafe using one to do personal business’.

“With the removal of cheques and the transition towards a cashless society, seniors have no choice but to transact online, exposing them to potential cybercrimes.”

Originally published as Grandkids to the rescue in push to protect elderly from cyber scams