Scams are becoming more sophisticated every year, and unfortunately, older Australians are still the most at risk. This year’s Scams Awareness Week has put the spotlight on protecting seniors, with a major new initiative designed to build confidence, boost digital literacy, and empower older Australians to fight back against scammers.
Nearly 1,000 seniors from across the country took part in a session held in Melbourne and streamed online, learning practical skills that will help them spot and avoid scams before it’s too late.
The program is part of Project BRIDGE—short for Building Resilience, Inclusion and Digital Growth for Elders—a collaboration led by Google in partnership with COTA Australia and supported by experts at the Australian Government’s National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC).
Why Scam Awareness for Seniors Matters
Scams cost Australians billions of dollars every year, but the burden isn’t shared equally. While national scam losses have recently started to decline, those aged 65 and over continue to be hit hardest. According to the NASC, older Australians reported almost $100 million in losses in 2024 alone.
This isn’t just about numbers. Scams can devastate retirement savings, affect financial independence, and create lasting stress and anxiety for older people. That’s why scam awareness and digital literacy programs are so critical.
Patricia Sparrow, CEO of COTA Australia, explained: “Scams can have a devastating impact on senior Australians and their savings. This project gives people the confidence and skills to identify threats and feel empowered—not only to protect themselves, but also to be a source of knowledge and support for their friends and family.”
What Seniors Learned at Scams Awareness Week
The interactive training session was designed to give participants the tools they need to protect themselves and others. Seniors were guided through:
- How to spot a scam: Recognising common tricks used across phone calls, emails, text messages, and online platforms.
- Building scam sense: Developing an instinct for red flags and suspicious behaviour.
- Improving digital security: Learning simple, effective ways to stay safe online.
- Taking action: Knowing how to respond if something feels wrong and where to report scams.
Bec Turner, Public Policy Manager at Google Australia, said: “Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods to target innocent people. We all have a role to play in knowing how to spot a scam and staying one step ahead. This program is an important part of that effort.”
STOP. CHECK. PROTECT.
One of the most important takeaways from the session was the STOP. CHECK. PROTECT. framework—a simple three-step process that anyone can use to guard against scammers.
STOP – Always pause before sharing personal or financial information. Scammers often use pressure tactics to make you act quickly.
- Hang up on suspicious calls or delete unusual messages.
- Take your time before responding to unexpected requests.
- Don’t let anyone rush you into a decision.
CHECK – Make sure the person or organisation contacting you is real.
- Verify details using official websites, apps, or phone numbers.
- Research offers or investment opportunities through trusted sources like ASIC.
- Ask a family member, friend, or professional for a second opinion.
PROTECT – If you think you’ve been targeted, act quickly.
- Contact your bank immediately if money or financial details are at risk.
- Reach out to IDCARE (www.idcare.org or 1800 595 160) for help in creating a recovery plan.
- Report scams to Scamwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au) and the Australian Cyber Security Centre (www.cyber.gov.au).
- Update passwords and security details if you think they’ve been compromised.
- Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports for unusual activity.
- Report impersonation attempts to the organisation or platform involved.
Support is also available if the experience feels overwhelming. Services such as Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) provide confidential help.
Building Digital Confidence for the Future
Scammers prey on uncertainty, which is why building confidence online is key. Programs like Project BRIDGE not only reduce the risk of falling victim to scams but also help older Australians feel more connected and secure in the digital world.
Free resources are available to support seniors in growing their digital skills. The Be Connected program, offered by the eSafety Commissioner, provides accessible online courses that cover everything from using email safely to protecting personal information.
Take the Next Step
Scams may be getting smarter, but so are older Australians. With the right skills, tools, and confidence, seniors can protect themselves and help protect their communities from financial harm.
For practical tips, reporting advice, and up-to-date scam alerts, visit www.scamwatch.gov.au. To build digital skills and confidence, explore the free courses at Be Connected through the eSafety Commissioner.
