The Council on the Ageing (COTA) NSW was delighted to partner with the National Anti-Scam Centre and ScamWatch for an important and timely free in-person event aimed at equipping older people to better protect themselves against scams. 

The in-person event on Thursday 26 June featured presentations from leaders in the field who shared information and advice on the importance of the stop, check, and protect message. You can watch the recording of the event by clicking here.

Older Australians consistently report much higher losses due to scams than any other group. Whether it is from the theft of personal, financial or security details, or investment or romance scams, it is better to be safe than scammed. 

“Anyone can be scammed. But in 2024, people aged 65 and over reported nearly $100 million in losses to scams – more than any other age group,” said Jayde Richmond, General Manager of the ACCC’s Anti-Scam Centre.  

“In this presentation with COTA NSW, I explain how ‘Stop. Check. Protect’ can help you stay safe from scams and make Australia an even harder target for scammers.” 

Monash University’s Dr Kate Gould also presented insights from her work with scam survivors. The CYBERABILITY Project highlights the stories of people who have been scammed to help others avoid and recover from fraud. 

“We’re delighted to be partnering with these trusted organisations to present this event,” said COTA NSW Chief Executive Officer, Gohar Yazdabadi. “As the peak organisation for older people in NSW we want to ensure that everyone can be digitally included and be supported and safe online, no matter their age.”