Around 1 in 4 Australians have been a victim of identity crime at some point in their lives. Some are older residents.
The Seniors Village Hub is inviting older residents to come to an information session on Thursday 20 April to learn about online crime prevention.
Presented by ID Support NSW this 45-minute session, will deliver practical advice on how to spot a scam, run a credit-check, or learn about the benefits of creating strong passwords. There will be a dedicated Q&A time after the talk.
Orange City Council Services Policy Committee Chair, Cr Mel McDonell said that seniors need to be informed to feel safer while browsing online.
“Internet and phones play such a big role in our lives now, it is hard to live without them now even for seniors,” Cr McDonell said.
“From shopping to banking, paying your bills, or keeping in touch with your family, we are living more of our lives online and it’s not going to change.”
“Cyber safety is a big issue for all Australians but especially for seniors as some are not comfortable and not as familiar with online practices and can be targeted by scammers.”
The talk will be led by Lachie Blunt from ID Support NSW. ID Support NSW is the NSW Government’s identity support unit that works to minimise risks associated with identity theft.
“It is important for Seniors to feel confident and protected while browsing online,” Cr McDonell said.
“Learning how to identify cyber scams and how to protect themselves is a number one priority.”
Light refreshments will be provided during the talk. Participants will also receive a take-home information pack to be read later and kept as a ready-reference.
This event is free, but bookings are required. You can book online via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/id-support-nsw-tickets-594169836977 or directly by phone on 02 6393 8600.
This event is supported by Orange City Council and the NSW State Government.
In the meantime, everyone can visit www.scamwatch.gov.au to learn about the latest scams and how to protect yourself.
The Seniors Village Hub aims to increase wellness, reduce loneliness and isolation experienced by older people living in Orange, Blayney and Cabonne. It caters for residents aged 55 and over, and indigenous residents over 50. The Seniors Village Hub is located at 77 Kite Street, Orange.
The Seniors Village Hub is funded by the Australian Government of Social Services.
Go to www.dss.gov.au
