News Online safety fears keep older Brits off-line |  |
11 February 2008 Fears about online safety are putting off Britain’s over 50s, and holding them back from getting to grips with computers and the internet. A new survey from UK online centres has found that 51% of over 50s living in England are concerned about internet safety and personal security. 28% worry about coming across inappropriate content, and both are key factors stopping older people using the world wide web. Of those silver surfers who do use the internet, 82% admitted to not feeling comfortable or secure online. Topping the list of safety concerns for older people is identity theft, followed closely by worries about giving out credit card details, being defrauded or getting their computer hacked into by a stranger. More than half of respondents also cited fear of computer viruses and internet predators as factors putting them off the internet. Helen Milner, Managing Director for UK online centres, says: "At UK online centres we believe the internet is for everybody. No one wants to get their personal details stolen or be the victim of an online scam, but people can learn to minimise, recognise or steer clear of these pitfalls. Although they don’t hit the headlines as often, the benefits of the internet far outweigh the dangers, and it is possible to take advantage of what it has to offer without putting yourself at risk. "Like anything else, the internet isn’t half as scary when you know something about it. It doesn’t matter if you’re already an email addict or if you’ve never even turned a computer on, with the right advice and support you can make the most of the internet, safely. Whatever you want to do – from keeping in touch, banking, renewing your tax disc, booking a bargain holiday, researching a hobby or just getting the shopping in – UK online centres could help you save time, hassle and even money by doing it online."  Sylvia Lloyd Grandmother Sylvia Lloyd is a self-confessed former web-phobe. Now she’s a regular at her local UK online centre and a regular on the internet, and she hasn’t looked back since. She explains: "My grandson, Ellis, is three and already takes to computers like a duck to water. I thought it was about time I caught up! Like most people, I suppose, I was fairly apprehensive when I first started using the internet. You hear all about identity theft and fraud and things on the news, and it makes you nervous. I used to worry every time I typed anything, even my name, let alone my bank details. I’ve been me for 63 years and I’m certainly not ready for someone to steal my identity! "But since I’ve been coming to the UK online centre, I’ve learned that there are simple steps you can take to make sure that doesn’t happen. Once you’re aware of the dangers computers and the internet stop being scary and start being useful - and even fun! Now I shop and pay my bills online, and since I’ve found out about price-comparison sites I’ve learned how to get the best deals and search for bargain goodies for my kids and grandkids. "I think the internet is such an important tool, and you shouldn't let a few people up to no good spoil it for you. You don't need to be afraid, you just need the know-how to do it all properly. That's where UK online centres come in, and I'd recommend anyone of any age to go in and see what they could do online, with a bit of a helping hand." Don’t let safety fears hold you or someone you know back! To follow in Sylvia’s footsteps and find your nearest UK online centre, call free on 0800 77 1234. Ends For more information about this story or about UK online centres, please contact Abi Stevens or Paul Wells on 0778 666 0689. Notes to editors - Research from ICM Internet Concerns Survey, December 2007.
- UK online centres provide millions of people with access to technology and support in using it. They offer free or low cost access to the internet and email, deliver online courses and encourage people to progress onto further learning.
- UK online centres are managed by Ufi, the organisation also behind learndirect. For more information please visit www.ukonlinecentres.com
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