Hi Digital helps older people stay safe and confident online, as Vodafone Foundation joins global anti-scams alliance

Vodafone Foundation today launched a new Hi Digital campaign helping older people recognise online fraud, build confidence and stay connected safely in an increasingly digital world. The campaign is being brought to life as Vodafone Foundation joins the Anti-Scams Philanthropy Collaborative, a global coalition bringing together leading organisations to combat the growing scam epidemic.

Released on International Day of Older Persons, the campaign centres on the story of Irina-Margareta Nistor from Romania, who speaks about her experience of online fraud and its impact on her confidence. Her story highlights how scams can affect finances and influence trust, independence and willingness to engage online.

Vodafone Foundation research published in April 2026 found that 91% of older adults surveyed across six European markets use digital devices every day. However:

• 69% reported low confidence or a fear of making mistakes
• Only one in three felt confident navigating new digital tools.
• Concerns about fraud and data misuse were widespread, with 62% worried that their personal information could be misused online.
• The research also pointed to the importance of human support, with 51% preferring to learn in person.

Hi Digital supports digital wellbeing and enables older people to feel more secure online, continue benefiting from digital technology and participate fully in an increasingly digital society. The programme helps over 65s develop everyday digital skills, recognise online risks and make informed decisions through partner-led face-to-face training and workshops, in-person support in Vodafone stores, digital and phone support and online learning.

Available in Ireland, Czechia, Netherlands and Romania, Hi Digital is run in partnership with charity, community and governments  in all countries. Support is available in local libraries, community centres, Vodafone stores and other locations. Across participating countries, local activities linked to this campaign will help older people identify warning signs of fraud, understand how scams work and know where to seek trusted support.

A new, global coalition

Vodafone Foundation has also joined the Anti-Scams Philanthropy Collaborative, a first-of-its-kind global coalition committing more than $50 million to combat the growing scam epidemic.

Bringing together organisations including Aspen Digital, Google.org, Dalberg, the Asian Development Bank, JPMorganChase, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, Craig Newmark Philanthropies, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the alliance aims to strengthen scam prevention, detection and disruption, support people affected and scale solutions for communities most at risk.

Through Hi Digital, Vodafone Foundation is helping turn that commitment into practical action for older people across Europe.

Lisa Felton, Managing Director Vodafone Foundation, said: “Scams are a growing challenge that can affect people's confidence as much as their finances. No single organisation can tackle this issue alone, which is why we are joining the Anti-Scams Philanthropy Collaborative to work alongside partners across technology, finance and civil society. With Hi Digital, we are also helping older people access the support they need to stay engaged, informed and safe in an increasingly digital world.”

Liz Roche, Head of Vodafone Foundation in Ireland and Programme Lead of Hi Digital, said: “Fraud awareness should not make people more afraid of technology. It should help them feel more confident using it. Through Hi Digital, over 65’s across Europe can learn practical skills, ask questions in a trusted environment and receive support from charity and community partners, as well as others facing similar challenges. By building confidence, independence and digital wellbeing, we help people continue benefiting from the opportunities that technology offers.”