Linda Robson's Shocking Encounter with Online Scammers

Linda Robson, the beloved Loose Women star, recently shared a chilling experience that serves as a stark warning about the pervasive threat of online scams. The 66-year-old actress revealed how she was nearly conned out of £150 by scammers pretending to be her daughter, Bobbie.

The Convincing Scam

While filming Loose Women, Linda received a WhatsApp message from a number she believed belonged to her daughter. The message claimed Bobbie had dropped her phone in the toilet and urgently needed money. The scammer cleverly mimicked Bobbie's language, even using her family nickname, “Bobbi Girl,” making the message incredibly convincing. Linda recounted, “I was on Loose Women when I got a Whatsapp message from my daughter, saying: 'I've dropped my phone down the toilet, can you send me some money?' I rang her and then she texted me saying: 'I can't pick up the phone because it's gone down the toilet.' It sounded like it was my daughter, she was saying things we would say to each other, and used her nickname for her - Bobbi Girl.”

Linda was so convinced that it was her daughter that she was prepared to send the requested £150. She admitted, “I really thought it was true. I would've sent the money the scammers wanted - £150 - because I was really worried she didn’t have any.” However, a quick-thinking colleague on set suspected a scam. This led to Linda asking a key question that exposed the fraudsters. “Luckily one of the bosses on the show said to me: 'I think you're being scammed'. So I asked the person on the phone for the name of our dog. They said Gerald, and I said: ‘No, my dog's called Dolly. So that's when I knew I was being scammed.”

The Aftermath and a Call to Action

The experience left Linda shaken, highlighting the sophisticated nature of these scams and their ability to target vulnerable individuals. She said, “I was quite shaken afterwards because it was scary how convincing it was.” She emphasized the increasing prevalence of such scams, noting that many of her friends have fallen victim, losing hundreds of pounds. This prompted Linda to advocate for greater digital awareness among older generations, stating, “I think everyone - but especially us older people - need to be aware of the risks. I'm 66 now, so I'm not as savvy as the younger people. We need to be really, really careful.”

Combating the Digital Divide

Linda has partnered with BT Group to raise awareness and encourage digital literacy among older adults. She participated in a free AbilityNet session, designed to equip older individuals with the skills to identify and avoid online scams. Linda shared her positive experience, noting, “It was so inspiring to see people in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s learning how to use their phones. There were about 25 of us, all asking questions and learning new things, from downloading apps to staying safe from online scams. It was a real eye-opener.” She added her own advice: “If it doesn’t seem right, then it’s not right.”

Practical Tips for Avoiding Online Scams

Linda’s experience underscores the importance of caution and critical thinking when interacting online. Here are some key steps to protect yourself:

• Always verify requests for money through independent means, such as calling the person directly on a known phone number rather than responding to a text or social media message.
• Never provide personal information, such as bank details or passwords, to unsolicited contacts.
• Be wary of urgent requests for money, particularly those that create a sense of pressure or emergency.
• If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek advice from a trusted friend or family member.
• Take advantage of free resources and training to improve your digital literacy.

The Importance of Digital Literacy for Seniors

The increasing reliance on technology necessitates digital literacy for all age groups. The vulnerability of older adults to online scams is a growing concern. Initiatives like Linda’s collaboration with BT Group are crucial in bridging the digital divide and empowering seniors with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves in the online world. The ability to independently navigate the digital landscape fosters confidence and independence. This is not just about individual safety, it is about creating a more inclusive digital society where everyone can participate safely and confidently.

A Timely Warning

Linda’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the very real dangers of online scams. Her experience is a wake-up call for all, particularly older generations, to be vigilant and informed about the tactics used by scammers. By taking proactive steps to improve our digital literacy and share these learnings with others, we can make our online experiences safer and more secure. The rise in digital scams highlights the urgent need for continued education and awareness initiatives. This is particularly important for those who may be less familiar with online technologies and more susceptible to these sophisticated scams. Remember, a little skepticism can go a long way in preventing financial loss and emotional distress.