The educational talk given by the citizen participation unit of the National Police force at the Silvestre González pensioners’ centre in Benalmádena was a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing the protection of elderly individuals and educating them about the risks of cybercrime scams and fraud on the internet.
Collaborating with Benalmádena town hall, the informative session, which was part of the force’s extensive security plan, was delivered by the unit’s head, Juan Antonio González, and officer José Javier Cortés. They provided valuable information on the digital threats faced by the elderly population, helping them to better understand and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online security.
María Luisa Robles, the councillor for senior citizens, emphasized the importance of such talks in fortifying the defense mechanisms of individuals and preventing them from falling victim to scams and digital fraud, which are becoming increasingly sophisticated and challenging to identify. She highlighted the necessity of educating the elderly about the risks they encounter in the digital realm.
In recognition of Benalmádena town hall’s collaboration in organizing these awareness sessions, the National Police expressed their gratitude and acknowledged the town’s commitment to the ‘united’ App. This platform serves as a secure space where senior citizens can engage with one another, share information, and access digital resources, thereby bridging the gap in digital literacy among the elderly population.
Cybersecurity experts from the National Police underscored that one of the primary digital scams targeting senior citizens is phishing. This deceptive practice involves criminals posing as banks or official entities to extract personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals. They also cautioned against the ‘fake computer technician’ scam and deceptive messages that lure individuals into sending funds to access fictitious prizes and raffles.
The informative talk not only shed light on the prevalent risks faced by the elderly in the digital sphere but also equipped them with knowledge to recognize and evade potential threats. By fostering a culture of awareness and education, initiatives like these play a pivotal role in safeguarding vulnerable sections of society from falling prey to cybercriminal activities.
Overall, the collaboration between the National Police force and Benalmádena town hall reflects a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by cybercrime and digital fraud. By empowering the elderly with information and resources, they are better equipped to navigate the digital landscape safely and securely, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and protected community.