Ruapehu libraries are working with Adrian Leineweber from PC Solutions and the Police to offer free seminars on how people can protect themselves from online scammers.
Senior Librarian Libby Ogle said that the informative seminars in Ohakune, Raetihi and Taumarunui are aimed at giving people the knowledge and practical skills they need to protect themselves from online scams.
"Adrian approached the library to offer his services free of charge in collaboration with Senior Constable Peter Marks of the NZ Police after hearing that people in Ruapehu had been scammed of over $100,000 over a four-week period," she said.
"With computer and online resources now being a high demand library service we felt this seminar was an excellent fit as part of the our educational programme and resources aimed at empowering our communities with important knowledge and life skills.
Adrian who owns PC Solutions in Taumarunui is a trusted resource for numerous Ruapehu businesses and residents, helping them navigate computer, phone, and technology-related challenges.
With over 30-years experience in IT he will be teaching people about how to create passwords in a secure and memorable way, computer safety, mobile phones, landline and email scams, and some practical tips for keeping safe with online purchasing amongst other useful skills.”
Adrian said that he has developed the seminars to be useful for a wide range or people whether they are confident with technology or not.
“Online scammers are getting more brazen and sophisticated all the time. If you are online with a phone or computer the scammers are going to try and get you,” he said.
Whether it’s a deceptive text message, or an email pretending to be from your bank, IRD, or other government agency, or even a loved one, the range and types of scams are happening with far more frequency.
If you know anyone who has been scammed you will know that beyond the financial losses, the toll on the victims' mental health is substantial.
Grab a friend or whanau member and come along to one of the free seminars and acquire the essential skills for online safety."
Details for the seminars are as follows:
Wednesday 8 November (Ohakune and Raetihi):
- 2:00pm at Te Pae Tata Community Hub at 43a Ruapehu Rd, Ohakune.
- 5:30pm at Waimarino Baptist Church Hall (The Centre) at 14 Seddon St, Raetihi.
Thursday 9 November (Taumarunui):
- 2:00pm and 5:30pm* at the Council Chambers, Huia Street, Taumarunui.
*Note: The 5:30pm session will be live-streamed on the Library's Facebook page.
www.facebook.com/RuapehuLibraries
If you have any queries please call Adrian on: 027 285 0440
