The internet helps us stay connected, manage finances, and find information quickly. But for all of us, it also brings risks. Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and anyone can be targeted.

We’ve all heard increasing stories of friends and whānau receiving emails, texts, or phone calls that seem genuine but are designed to steal personal details or money. It can feel confronting, and it’s easy to blame yourself if you’ve been caught out — but scams are designed to trick even the most cautious of us.

If you’re supporting someone living with dementia | mate wareware, online safety becomes even more important. Here are five simple ways to keep yourself and your whānau safer online.

1. Pause Before You Click
If you get an unexpected email or text with a link, don’t click straight away. Even if it looks like it’s from your bank, a courier, or a government agency, take a moment. Instead of using the link, go directly to the official website or call the organisation on a trusted number.

2. Never Share Personal Details by Email or Text
Legitimate organisations will not ask for your PIN, passwords, or banking details over email or text. If someone does, it’s a red flag. Always double-check through official channels before giving out any information.

3. Strengthen Your Passwords
Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts. A mix of letters, numbers, and symbols is best. Consider using a reputable password manager to help keep track of them. If a website offers two-step verification (also called multi-factor authentication), turn it on.

4. Be Alert to Urgent or Emotional Messages
Scammers often create a sense of urgency — “Pay now or your account will close” — or try to tug at your heartstrings. Take a breath. Talk it over with someone you trust before responding.

5. Keep Your Devices Updated
Install updates on your phone, tablet, and computer when prompted. Updates often include security improvements that protect against new threats. If you’re unsure how, ask a trusted friend or family member to help.

A New Kind of Scam to Watch For
Scammers are now using technology to clone voices and impersonate someone you know. You might get a call that sounds exactly like a loved one saying something like:

“Hi Mum, it’s me. I’ve lost my bag with my phone and all my money!! Can you please send me $100? I’ll pay you back. Can you send it to my friend Lisa on this number?”

These calls feel real and urgent — but they’re designed to trick you.

One simple way to protect yourself is to agree on a family password. If a loved one ever calls asking for help, they can use that word to show it’s really them.

Having this plan in place, much like schools do when someone else is picking up a child, can give you peace of mind and stop scammers in their tracks.

Extra Support

If you’re worried you may have been scammed, contact your bank immediately and talk to someone you trust. Netsafe also provides free, confidential advice on scams:
🔗 www.netsafe.org.nz
📞 0508 NETSAFE (0508 638 723)

Staying safe online is one more way we can protect ourselves and those we care for. A few simple steps can help prevent stress and keep your personal information secure. If these tips are helpful, please share them with friends, neighbours, or whānau — together we can support safer, more confident online communities.