Over 1.8 million over-65s scammed online last year as Virgin Media O2 launches free “Scam Schools”

More than 1.8 million over-65s in the UK have fallen victim to online scams in the past year, losing an average of £831 each, according to new research from Virgin Media O2.

To tackle the problem, the company has teamed up with Good Things Foundation to launch a series of free, in-person “Scam Schools” across the UK. The sessions aim to help older and vulnerable people build confidence online, learn how to spot scams, and stay safer on the internet.

Older people increasingly targeted by fraudsters

The study, released ahead of Get Online Week (20–26 October), paints a worrying picture of how scammers are exploiting older internet users.

• 80% of Brits say they’re worried about older relatives being targeted.
• 73% believe scammers are deliberately focusing on vulnerable people.
• 61% think bank branch closures have forced over-65s online, making them more exposed to fraud.

When asked which scams are most likely to fool older people, respondents pointed to fake messages from banks, HMRC or delivery firms, followed by phishing emails, tech support scams, and bogus investment schemes.

Fear of scams keeping people offline

Fraud is having a major knock-on effect on digital confidence. The research found that:

• 40% of people say fear of scams stops older relatives enjoying online services like shopping or banking.
• 35% admit the thought of a loved one being scammed keeps them awake at night.
• 29% have even told relatives to stay offline completely to avoid being tricked.

Virgin Media O2 says that while these fears are understandable, going offline can leave people isolated and cut off from everyday services. The Scam Schools aim to change that by helping older adults feel safer and more confident online.

What the new Scam Schools offer

The free Scam School sessions will run nationwide as part of Virgin Media O2’s Connect More initiative. Delivered in partnership with Good Things Foundation, they’re designed for people with low digital confidence and will cover:

• How to recognise fake emails, texts and websites
• Spotting impersonation scams and fake investment offers
• Setting stronger passwords and protecting personal data
• Where to get help and report suspicious activity

The sessions will be run by Virgin Media O2 staff volunteers – known as “scam busters” – who are given up to five days of paid leave each year to support community programmes.

“Scammers are becoming ever more convincing and anyone can fall victim,” said Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2. “Scam School is the latest example of how we’re helping people build the confidence and skills they need to stay safe online.”

Building digital confidence across the UK

Helen Milner OBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation, said:

“Too many people still lack the skills and confidence to spot scams. By working with Virgin Media O2, we’re helping local communities make the most of life online and stay safe in an increasingly digital world.”

The Scam School sessions are part of Virgin Media O2’s wider “Swerve the Scammers” campaign, which has already blocked over 600 million scam messages this year and introduced AI-powered call detection to alert customers to possible fraud before they even pick up.

Anyone interested in attending a session or hosting one locally can find more information and register via the Virgin Media O2 website.