True Ambassadors Digital Safety Session: Empowering Community Against Online Threats

“TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE” – PROTECTING YOURSELF AND OTHERS FROM SCAMS ONLINE

On February 18, 2025, True Ambassadors demonstrated their dedication to digital safety by hosting an informative session. It featured Emily and Ruben from I Found Me – Therapeutic Counselling

The event focused on crucial aspects of online security and financial information management. It addressed the growing concerns of cybersecurity in an increasingly digital world. This event, which focused on key aspects of online security and financial information management, comes at a critical time as the UK implements new online safety regulations. Time for tech firms to act: UK online safety regulation comes into force – Ofcom The importance of such educational initiatives is underscored by recent statistics. According to the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, cyber attacks remain a significant threat to UK businesses and organisations. Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025 – Official statistics announcement – GOV.UK Furthermore, a recent study found that only 3% of respondents felt very confident in the UK Government’s response to cybercrime. This highlights the need for community-led efforts like True Ambassadors’ session.

Key Highlights of the Session:

Online Safety Awareness
The session emphasised the importance of vigilance against digital fraud and scams. It aligned with the theme of Safer Internet Day 2025: “Too good to be true? Protecting ourselves and others from scams online” Safer Internet Day 2025 – UK Safer Internet Centre. Participants learned to recognize potential threats using the SCAM abbreviation:

Sounds too good to be true
Contact you did not expect
Asks for personal information
Money or trade requested

Financial Information Management

Emily and Ruben shared best practices for secure online banking and financial transactions. This guidance is particularly crucial in light of recent statistics showing that cyber investment scams have become the costliest form of cybercrime. Victims lost over $4.5 billion in 2023.

Interactive Engagement

The collaborative learning environment encouraged active participation, allowing residents to share experiences and ask questions. This approach aligns with the growing recognition of the importance of community involvement in cybersecurity awareness.

Based on the digital safety session held by True Ambassadors on February 18, 2025, and drawing from the broader context of cybersecurity awareness, the key takeaways included:

Recognising online threats: Participants learned to identify potential scams and fraudulent activities online using the SCAM acronym (Sounds too good to be true, Contact you did not expect, Asks for personal information, Money or trade requested).
Protecting personal and financial information: The session covered best practices for securing personal data and managing financial information safely online.
Device security: Attendees learned about the importance of securing all internet-connected devices, both at home and work. This helps prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
Awareness of AI-driven threats: The session likely highlighted the increasing use of AI by cybercriminals. They use it to create more sophisticated attacks. Thus, there is a need for heightened vigilance. 5 takeaways from Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2023 | Cyber Magazine
Importance of continuous education: The event underscored the need for ongoing learning about cybersecurity. Technology and threats evolve rapidly. Top Takeaways from Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2020
Reporting mechanisms: Participants were informed about proper channels for reporting suspicious online activities or potential security breaches.
Balancing online engagement with safety: The session emphasized enjoying the benefits of the digital world while maintaining awareness of potential risks. Call It Out: 5 key takeaways from our “Staying Safe Online” webinar | NCFE

True Ambassadors’ digital safety session, supported by Canada Life UK and Neighbourly, demonstrates their commitment to empowering community members. They provide essential knowledge to navigate the digital landscape safely and confidently.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, with AI-powered attacks and sophisticated social engineering becoming more prevalent. Initiatives like True Ambassadors’ Digital Safety Session play a crucial role in protecting vulnerable community members.

The event concluded with a lively dance session, promoting physical well-being and community bonding. This unique ending emphasised True Ambassadors’ holistic approach to resident welfare, combining digital safety education with physical activity.

True Ambassadors extends its heartfelt gratitude to Canada Life UK and Neighbourly for their generous support. Their support makes events like this possible. Their contributions enable the organisation to continue its vital work in empowering the community. They make digital skills accessible to those who need them most.

True Ambassadors continues to fulfil its mission of empowering those facing adversity and caring for everyone in the community. By organising events like this Digital Safety Session, we are ensuring that our residents are well-equipped. We help them navigate the challenges of the digital age safely and confidently.

True Ambassadors is playing a vital role in empowering community members to navigate the digital landscape safely and confidently. As the UK continues to strengthen its online safety framework, such grassroots initiatives will be essential. They ensure that all members of society can benefit from the opportunities of the digital world while staying protected from its risks.

For further information please read and follow the link; Implementation of the Online Safety Act – House of Commons Library