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Recent research by Virgin Media O2 highlighted that over 1.8 million over-65s have been victims of online scams in the past year, with average losses reaching £831. This alarming statistic underscores the growing fear among Britons for their elder relatives' safety, with 55% worried they might lose life savings to fraudsters.
As part of Get Online Week, Virgin Media O2, in collaboration with Good Things Foundation, is launching free "Scam School" sessions across the UK. These schools aim to empower older adults with the skills needed to recognise and avoid digital scams, blending practical advice with hands-on training.
The scams that concern older Britons include:
Moreover, 29% have advised loved ones to stay offline due to these risks. Many have even taken over online tasks like managing finances or booking appointments to shield their relatives from potential scams.
74-year-old Mary from Berkshire lost several thousand pounds in a cryptocurrency investment scam after being pressured into buying Bitcoin from a deepfake video of an AI Holly Willoughby. She says, “I was persuaded by what looked like a genuine opportunity, but it turned into a nightmare. The scammers were clever and convincing, calling me every day and pressuring me to put in more money. In the end, I lost around £20,000 of my savings (some of which I got back).
“The hardest part wasn’t just the financial loss; it was the shame and guilt I felt. I couldn’t bring myself to tell my family at first because I felt I’d let them down. I now know how important it is to be cautious and scam aware online. If something doesn’t feel right, stop, speak to someone you trust, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Fear of scams is holding many older people back from using online services. The data shows that 40% say the fear of being scammed prevents older relatives and friends living life to the fullest, while 45% agree it stops them enjoying simple things online like shopping, banking, or staying in touch with family. As a result, 42% of people surveyed say they feel guilty they can’t do more to keep their older relatives safe online.
To counteract this fear, Virgin Media O2's Scam Schools introduce vital digital literacy, teaching participants how to spot phishing emails, secure personal data, and create robust passwords.
The programme, part of Virgin Media O2's "Connect More" initiative, is delivered by trained staff volunteering through the "Take Five" scheme, ensuring a supportive learning environment. The initiative aims to bolster digital confidence among older persons, enabling them to enjoy online conveniences without fear.
In addition to in-person sessions, resources are available online via the Good Things Foundation's Learn My Way platform, offering modules on fraud prevention for those unable to attend in person.
Murray Mackenzie from Virgin Media O2 states their commitment to blocking millions of fraudulent texts and helping communities build essential digital safety skills. Scam School represents a proactive step in their continuous effort to guard those most vulnerable.
Helen Milner OBE from Good Things Foundation reiterates the importance of equipping communities to traverse the digital landscape safely, ensuring equal access to all digital opportunities.
The ongoing "Swerve the Scammers" campaign forms part of Virgin Media O2’s broader strategy to impart communities with fraud prevention knowledge and tools, striving to mitigate risks and foster digital inclusion for all.
