Switched On Seniors

07/10/2026

Scammers are targeting Australians with fake stock tips that look completely legitimate. They use real company names, real logos and even impersonate well‑known financial experts to build trust. The goal is to push people into WhatsApp or Telegram groups where they are pressured to buy shares.

The trap is a classic pump‑and‑dump. Victims buy real stocks through real brokers, which pushes the price up. Once enough people have invested, the scammers sell their own shares and the price collapses. Ordinary Australians are left holding stocks worth a fraction of what they paid.

Older Australians are being hit hardest. Scamwatch data shows people aged 65 and over make up about 17.1 per cent of the population but account for 26.5 per cent of reported losses. Many victims describe the emotional toll as just as severe as the financial loss.

A few things to keep in mind:
- Never act on stock tips from WhatsApp, Telegram or social media
- Genuine investment advice never comes from strangers online
- Check whether the person or company is licensed
- Slow down if a deal feels urgent or unusually profitable
- Talk things through with a trusted family member or licensed adviser

Read more here: https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/finance/when-a-fake-stock-tip-wipes-out-your-savings-the-scam-fooling-smart-australians/?utm_source=campaign-monitor&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-newsletter

Staying informed helps protect our community. Please share this with someone who might benefit.

ASIC warns that pump-and-dump scams are targeting older Australians through fake celebrity endorsements and WhatsApp groups, with investment scam losses hitting $837.7 million in 2025. Image Source: Natee K Jindakum / Shutterstock

04/10/2026

REMINDER!

Our Waikiki group is not meeting this week as it is school holidays and our Shoalwater group is taking a break to attend the Seniors and Carers Expo.

Switched on Seniors is a friendly, peer‑led space where seniors help other seniors with everyday technology. There’s relaxed learning, a hot cuppa, and plenty of time for one‑on‑one support. We’re here week in, week out, so join a group whenever you like and stay for as long as you need.

If you’re feeling unsure with your phone or tablet, come along this week! If you know someone who needs support, please share and encourage them to pop in. Our friendly team of mentors are waiting to help.

📍 Where we’re meeting this week:

ROCKINGHAM – Autumn Centre
McNicholl Street
Tuesdays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week
Centre membership required

WAIKIKI – Rockingham Baptist Church
30 Gnangara Drive
NOT MEETING due to school holidays

SHOALWATER – Church Hall
78 Frederick Street
NOT MEETING due to Seniors and Carers Expo

COCKBURN – Spearwood Library
9 Coleville Crescent, Spearwood WA 6163
Wednesdays, 1pm to 3pm
Free to attend, no bookings required
Tel: 9411 3800
https://www.cockburnlibraries.com.au/programs/switched-on-seniors/

PERTH C*D – Uniting Seniors in the City
Level 1, 97 William Street, Perth WA 6000
Tuesdays, 1pm to 2.30pm
$99 per term, includes access to up to 3 classes per week
Tel: 9483 1333
Email: [email protected]
https://www.perthunitingchurch.org.au/courses/view/tech-time

30/09/2026

Scammers are using a new WhatsApp trick that looks completely genuine because it comes from someone you already know. The message usually says something simple like “Can you vote for me in a competition?” and includes a link. It feels harmless, but it’s designed to quietly take over your WhatsApp account.

The danger is in the six‑digit code. If you enter that code on the fake voting page, you’re actually linking your WhatsApp to a scammer’s device. They can then read your chats, message your contacts and ask them for money in your name.

A few things to keep in mind:
- Never share your six‑digit WhatsApp verification code
- Don’t enter codes on unfamiliar websites
- If a friend sends an unusual request, contact them through a different channel
- Set up a PIN under Settings, Account, Two‑step verification to block unauthorised access

Read more here: https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/technology/could-one-sixdigit-code-give-away-your-whatsapp-account/?utm_source=campaign-monitor&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-newsletter

Older Australians are losing more to scams than any other age group, so staying alert matters. Please share this with someone who might benefit.

Would you trust this message from a friend? Image Source: guteksk7 / Shutterstock

27/09/2026

REMINDER!

The Waikiki group is not meeting this week as it is school holidays but feel free to visit one of our other groups!

Switched on Seniors is a friendly, peer‑led space where seniors help other seniors with everyday technology. There’s relaxed learning, a hot cuppa, and plenty of time for one‑on‑one support. We’re here week in, week out, so join a group whenever you like and stay for as long as you need.

If you’re feeling unsure with your phone or tablet, come along this week! If you know someone who needs support, please share and encourage them to pop in. Our friendly team of mentors are waiting to help.

📍 Where we’re meeting this week:

ROCKINGHAM – Autumn Centre
McNicholl Street
Tuesdays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week
Centre membership required

WAIKIKI – Rockingham Baptist Church
30 Gnangara Drive
NOT MEETING due to school holidays

SHOALWATER – Church Hall
78 Frederick Street
Fridays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

COCKBURN – Spearwood Library
9 Coleville Crescent, Spearwood WA 6163
Wednesdays, 1pm to 3pm
Free to attend, no bookings required
Tel: 9411 3800
https://www.cockburnlibraries.com.au/programs/switched-on-seniors/

PERTH C*D – Uniting Seniors in the City
Level 1, 97 William Street, Perth WA 6000
Tuesdays, 1pm to 2.30pm
$99 per term, includes access to up to 3 classes per week
Tel: 9483 1333
Email: [email protected]
https://www.perthunitingchurch.org.au/courses/view/tech-time

23/09/2026

Romance scammers are using new technology to build trust in ways that feel very real. AI can now generate convincing photos, smooth conversation and even video chats where the scammer’s face is replaced with someone else’s. It can be incredibly believable.

If you or someone you know chats with people online, take a moment to pause and check anything that feels unusual. A quick conversation with a friend or family member can make a big difference.

A few things to keep in mind:
- Be cautious if someone avoids meeting in person
- Avoid sharing personal details early on
- Slow down if the relationship feels rushed or overly intense
- Treat video calls as helpful, but not proof of identity
- Check in with a trusted friend if something feels off

Read more about a recent case here: https://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/technology/the-nurse-he-adored-had-six-fingers-and-that-was-just-the-beginning/?utm_source=campaign-monitor&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-newsletter

A retired psychologist lost $180,000 to a deepfake romance scam so convincing it took a cybersecurity expert to spot the telltale signs, including six fingers on one hand. Image Source: Shutterstock / TippaPatt

20/09/2026

Photos, emails, and documents can feel like they disappear into thin air. Lots of older adults feel stressed when they can’t find something they know they saved. You’re not the only one who’s had this happen. Our groups can help.

Switched on Seniors is a friendly, peer‑led space where seniors help other seniors with everyday technology. There’s relaxed learning, a hot cuppa, and plenty of time for one‑on‑one support. We’re here week in, week out, so join a group whenever you like and stay for as long as you need.
If you’re feeling unsure with your phone or tablet, come along this week! If you know someone who needs support, please share and encourage them to pop in. Our friendly team of mentors are waiting to help.

📍 Where we’re meeting this week:

ROCKINGHAM – Autumn Centre
McNicholl Street
Tuesdays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week
Centre membership required

WAIKIKI – Rockingham Baptist Church
30 Gnangara Drive
Thursdays during school terms, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

SHOALWATER – Church Hall
78 Frederick Street
Fridays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

COCKBURN – Spearwood Library
9 Coleville Crescent, Spearwood WA 6163
Wednesdays, 1pm to 3pm
Free to attend, no bookings required
Tel: 9411 3800
https://www.cockburnlibraries.com.au/programs/switched-on-seniors/

PERTH C*D – Uniting Seniors in the City
Level 1, 97 William Street, Perth WA 6000
Tuesdays, 1pm to 2.30pm
$99 per term, includes access to up to 3 classes per week
Tel: 9483 1333
Email: [email protected]
https://www.perthunitingchurch.org.au/courses/view/tech-time

16/09/2026

Beware of Fake Purchase Scams!

Scamwatch is warning Australians about a growing scam where people receive messages about a purchase they never made, along with a phone number to call to “fix” it. These messages can look very real and often use familiar services like PayPal, Apple or Microsoft to create urgency and worry.

Visit ScamWatch to learn what these fake purchase messages look like, why they feel convincing, and the simple steps you can take to stay safe - including not calling the number, checking your accounts directly, and taking your time before responding.

https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/about-us/news-and-alerts/scam-alert-fake-purchase-callback-scams

Scammers are sending fake messages that say you bought something you didn’t buy and tells you to call a phone number to stop or reverse the payment.

13/09/2026

Technology changes constantly, and it’s easy to feel like you’re always catching up. Many people feel embarrassed or isolated by this. You’re not alone – and we can help.

Switched on Seniors is a friendly, peer‑led space where seniors help other seniors with everyday technology. There’s relaxed learning, a hot cuppa, and plenty of time for one‑on‑one support. We’re here week in, week out, so join a group whenever you like and stay for as long as you need.

If you’re feeling unsure with your phone or tablet, come along this week! If you know someone who needs support, please share and encourage them to pop in. Our friendly team of mentors are waiting to help.

📍 Where we’re meeting this week:

ROCKINGHAM – Autumn Centre
McNicholl Street
Tuesdays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week
Centre membership required

WAIKIKI – Rockingham Baptist Church
30 Gnangara Drive
Thursdays during school terms, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

SHOALWATER – Church Hall
78 Frederick Street
Fridays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

COCKBURN – Spearwood Library
9 Coleville Crescent, Spearwood WA 6163
Wednesdays, 1pm to 3pm
Free to attend, no bookings required
Tel: 9411 3800
https://www.cockburnlibraries.com.au/programs/switched-on-seniors/

PERTH C*D – Uniting Seniors in the City
Level 1, 97 William Street, Perth WA 6000
Tuesdays, 1pm to 2.30pm
$99 per term, includes access to up to 3 classes per week
Tel: 9483 1333
Email: [email protected]
https://www.perthunitingchurch.org.au/courses/view/tech-time

09/09/2026

Feeling unsure about staying safe online?

Many people worry about scams, strange messages or whether their online accounts are protected. This Little Aussie article offers clear, practical guidance to help you feel more confident - simple habits that make everyday online life a bit safer and more predictable.

Read about it here: https://littleaussie.com.au/post/stay-safe-online-scam-protection-tips?communitysuburb=Rockingham&storyid=b203c720-3265-f111-a826-6045bdc27e29&utm_source=Email&utm_campaign=TLF

If online safety ever feels confusing or overwhelming, you’re not alone. Our groups are a safe place to bring your questions, talk things through and learn alongside others.

The internet has become an essential part of everyday life, helping us stay connected, shop, bank and access information. But while online technology offers many benefits, it’s important to use it safely.

06/09/2026

A lot of seniors tell us they avoid asking for help because they don’t want to burden their children or grandchildren. You deserve support that feels patient and unhurried. Our groups are a welcoming place to get exactly that.

Switched on Seniors is a friendly, peer‑led space where seniors help other seniors with everyday technology. There’s relaxed learning, a hot cuppa, and plenty of time for one‑on‑one support. We’re here week in, week out, so join a group whenever you like and stay for as long as you need.

If you’re feeling unsure with your phone or tablet, come along this week! If you know someone who needs support, please share and encourage them to pop in. Our friendly team of mentors are waiting to help.

📍 Where we’re meeting this week:

ROCKINGHAM – Autumn Centre
McNicholl Street
Tuesdays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week
Centre membership required

WAIKIKI – Rockingham Baptist Church
30 Gnangara Drive
Thursdays during school terms, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

SHOALWATER – Church Hall
78 Frederick Street
Fridays, 10am to 12pm | $4 per week

COCKBURN – Spearwood Library
9 Coleville Crescent, Spearwood WA 6163
Wednesdays, 1pm to 3pm
Free to attend, no bookings required
Tel: 9411 3800
https://www.cockburnlibraries.com.au/programs/switched-on-seniors/

PERTH C*D – Uniting Seniors in the City
Level 1, 97 William Street, Perth WA 6000
Tuesdays, 1pm to 2.30pm
$99 per term, includes access to up to 3 classes per week
Tel: 9483 1333
Email: [email protected]
https://www.perthunitingchurch.org.au/courses/view/tech-time