New online training program aims to protect seniors from cyber scams
The Fulton County Department of Senior Services launched an online training initiative designed to help older adults recognize and avoid common cyber scams.
The launch of Avoid Cyber Threats (A.C.T.) was made in partnership with the Fulton County Department of Information Technology, according to a news release.
A.C.T. kicked off on Aug. 19.
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The release said the county developed the free, self-paced training program in response to the growing number of online scams targeting seniors. The program for residents aged 55 and older will cover how to identify phishing scams, safeguard personal information, and protect against threats like AI voice cloning.
Senior adults account for nearly 40 percent of all fraud-related losses. Scams targeting seniors have risen by 60 percent in the last five years, the release said. Vulnerabilities such as a trusting nature, limited tech familiarity, and reluctance to report incidents make them prime targets. According to the FBI, Americans aged 60 and over lost nearly $4.9 billion to fraud in 2024, with the average victim losing $83,000.
Georgia ranked seventh in financial losses among seniors, with a significant rise in cybercrime complaints. Common scams include tech support hoaxes, grandparent scams, and fraudsters impersonating government officials or family members.
Sandy Springs Police has Officer Jarrell Greene and a Volunteer in Police Services (VIPS) member who worked fraud cases with the FBI years ago, visit assisted living facilities throughout Sandy Springs. According to Sgt. Leon Millholland, the department’s public information officer, they give information to help the residents become more aware of current scams.
Greene has also worked with local business owners in Sandy Springs, who have cryptocurrency machines in their businesses. Signs placed at the machines warn residents to be aware of scams associated with cryptocurrency.
“Right now, the popular scam is someone calling a resident, pretending to be a law enforcement officer, and demanding the payment of money from the resident or the resident will face unfavorable consequences,” Millholland told Rough Draft Atlanta.
Fulton County Senior Services set a goal to train 2,000 seniors and caregivers by December.
Ladisa Onyiliogwu, director of the Department of Senior Services, said research shows seniors who undergo cybersecurity training are 80 percent more likely to recognize and avoid scams.
Older adults can access A.C.T. training from home, a local senior center, or anywhere with a secure network. Participants will receive a certificate of completion after finishing the course, which can be accessed online on the county’s website.
For more information about A.C.T., including training topics and how to register, visit the online web page or call the Fulton County Senior Services STARline at 404-613-6000.
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