Innovative app protects seniors from fraud - Hildesheim University takes stock!

Innovative app protects seniors from fraud - Hildesheim University takes stock!

It's an issue that affects many older people: fraud. Particularly unscrupulous scams such as the grandchild trick are becoming more and more common, and fear among seniors is growing. In Bockenem, Wilhelm Himmler personally experienced how much damage fraudsters can cause. An acquaintance of his lost a whopping 55,000 euros to crooks. In order to combat these risks, students have... University of Hildesheim developed an innovative solution: the “Fraud Radar+” app.

This app is not just another tech gadget; it is intended to offer real support to older people. Real-time warnings and understandable tips are intended to alert users before it is too late. 20 seniors have already actively participated in the design of the app in a workshop. The idea is to use comparisons with the cell phone address book and various databases to identify suspicious calls and then report them through pop-up alerts.

Prevention through education

But what exactly are these scams that often specifically target older people? Loud Nursing assistance There are various tricks to gain the trust of seniors. A classic is the grandchild trick, in which fraudsters pose as grandchildren and ask for money, usually for urgent purposes. Coffee trips in which seniors are lured to sales events are similarly perfidious. Here, pressure is often put on older people with overpriced products, which puts many in a difficult position. Other common methods include fake police officers or competition fraud.

The study group led by Johanna Götz and Mareike Wisdom recognized how important it is to sensitize the older generation to these dangers. Conversations with seniors have shown that, in addition to the fear of fraud, shame and loneliness are also widespread. These emotional aspects can often cause those affected to shy away from calling for help.

Community responsibility

Chief Inspector Falk Blickwede from the police in Hildesheim supports the project and emphasizes how important it is that the police help with the development of the app. They can provide important information about current scams, which is then distributed as push notifications to app users. Although the financing of the application is still in doubt—discussions are ongoing with various municipalities in Lower Saxony—the need for such a solution is undeniable.

With the “Fraud Radar+” app, students are sending a message that you don’t have to fight against fraudsters alone. It is a step in the right direction at a time when trust in authorities is being deliberately exploited by crooks. The courage and initiative to address this serious issue shows that a collective effort is needed to protect seniors. This makes it all the more important for everyone to be aware of discussing these issues and supporting each other.

Protection starts with information. Misunderstandings and ignorance make it easy for crooks. It is therefore essential that we stand together as a society to support and protect this precious but vulnerable generation.