Workshop for Seniors on (Online) Safety
Scams, phishing, and fake messages sent in the bank’s name: digital and telephone fraud is widespread and increasingly targeting seniors. The municipality of Zoetermeer is therefore organizing a citywide meeting on (online) safety specifically for residents aged 55 and older on Thursday, April 30, at the Kinepolis Zoetermeer cinema at Oostwaarts 70. The meeting starts at 2:45 p.m. (doors open at 2:00 p.m.). The program ends at 5:00 PM and includes a drink and light refreshments. Participation is free, but registration is required.
Mayor Michel Bezuijen: "Criminals are constantly coming up with new ways to deceive people. That’s why it’s important for residents to know what to look out for. Through this event and the neighborhood meetings that will follow, we’re giving seniors practical tools to recognize fraud and protect themselves. No one should feel ashamed if things go wrong. It is precisely by talking about it and reporting it that we help each other stay safe."
Relatable examples and practical tips
During the event, TV host Catherine Keyl will discuss familiar scenarios with the audience using informational videos. Topics such as chat scams, spoofing, phishing, and charity scams will be covered in detail. The session will also explore how perpetrators operate, what participants can do to prevent themselves from becoming victims, and why reporting incidents—despite any feelings of embarrassment—is so important. On stage, an expert panel featuring representatives from Veilig Internetten, SeniorWeb, the police, and the banking sector will answer questions from the audience and offer practical tips.
Safe online neighborhood meetings
This event marks the start of a series of neighborhood meetings on online safety for residents aged 55 and older. These neighborhood meetings will take place starting in May. They are smaller in scale, more interactive, and focus more on developments in the neighborhood. You are welcome to attend both the citywide meeting and one of the neighborhood meetings.
To register
Anyone interested in attending the meeting on April 30 can register by sending an email to digitaleveiligheid@zoetermeer.nl, including their name and the date of the meeting. You can also register by phone at 14 079.
