Stay one step ahead of scammers

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is inviting community groups across Shropshire to arrange a free talk to help older people recognise the latest digital scams and take simple steps to protect themselves.

The charity is encouraging people aged 55 and over to become more Scam Smart as fraudsters continue to find new ways to target people through phones, emails, text messages and the internet.

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is offering community groups, clubs, societies and other organisations where older people meet the opportunity to invite a guest speaker to talk about current digital scams and how to avoid becoming a victim.

The charity’s Scam Smart sessions provide practical, easy-to-understand advice about the types of fraud older people are likely to encounter. The sessions explain how scammers operate, the warning signs to look out for and, importantly, what people can do to protect themselves.

Advice includes simple steps such as stopping and thinking before responding to an unexpected message or phone call, checking that a request is genuine, being careful about clicking links and never rushing into sending money or sharing personal information.

Jim Hawkins, Wellbeing Services Development Officer at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said: “Scammers are constantly changing the way they operate, and their messages and phone calls can sometimes look and sound very convincing. However, there are some simple steps people can take to reduce the risk of being caught out.”

“Our Scam Smart sessions are about giving older people the knowledge and confidence to recognise potential scams and know what to do when something doesn’t feel right.”

“We would particularly like to hear from community groups across Shropshire where older people get together socially. Whether it’s a club, society, lunch group or another community organisation, we can come along and provide practical advice that could help members stay safer.”

Jim recently delivered a Scam Smart talk at the Chattery Cafe in Admaston for members of the Shawbirch and Surrounding Area Community Hub (SASA). The talk was very well attended, and members welcomed the opportunity to learn more about the latest scams and the practical advice was greatly appreciated.

People do not need to be particularly confident with technology to benefit from a Scam Smart session. The talks are designed to be accessible and relevant to anyone aged 55 and over who uses a smartphone, computer, tablet or other digital device, as well as those who simply want to understand more about the scams they may encounter.

With more everyday services moving online, knowing how to spot a scam and what to do next has become an important part of staying safe and confident in the digital world.

Community groups across Shropshire are encouraged to get in touch with Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin to arrange a guest speaker for their members.

For more information or to arrange a Scam Smart talk, contact Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin on 01743 233 123 or email enquiries@ageukstw.org.uk