Proactive sessions help keep retirees safe online

More than 1,500 Bolton Clarke retirement village residents and community members have taken part in the organisation’s dedicated digital literacy program, with more than 200 sessions held since the initiative commenced last year.

10 February is Safer Internet Day and Bolton Clarke’s digital independence team says it’s a great opportunity to focus on staying safely connected online – particularly for seniors, who are disproportionately affected by online scams.

Bolton Clarke Digital Business Development Manager Joe said the team worked with residents through several programs, with the digital literacy sessions drawing on government resources with personalised support a popular opportunity to help people strengthen their digital habits and use technology safely and independently.

The addition of new Cyber Security Awareness and Scam Prevention sessions was now providing more specific opportunities to help people recognise scams and stay secure.

“We have had over 20 of our retirement villages and almost 500 residents attend the Cyber Security sessions so far,” Joe said.  

“These programs strengthen residents’ understanding of emerging threats, scam tactics, safe device use and password security.

“We want to ensure every resident has access to reliable and practical advice they can take home and implement when online.”

Free tips for staying safe online are also available at the Australian Government’s Be Connected website.