Question 1

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

A pen and your smartphone. That's it. Bring a pen to make notes; we provide printed handouts for everything covered, but many people like to jot things down as they go. Your smartphone is useful for Session 3 (Securing your phone and accounts) where we do live hands-on exercises, but you can still follow along without one. You do not need to bring a laptop, tablet, or any other equipment.

Question 2

Do I need to bring my phone?

Accepted Answer

It's very helpful for Session 3 (Securing your phone and accounts) where we walk through things like setting up two-factor authentication and checking your privacy settings live on your device. For Sessions 1, 2, and 4 your phone is useful but not required; everything is demonstrated on screen and you can do the exercises at home afterwards. If you do bring your phone, make sure it's charged.

Question 3

What type of phone do I need? Does it have to be an iPhone?

Accepted Answer

Any smartphone works, iPhone or Android. We cover both in sessions. If you have an older phone or a basic model, that's absolutely fine. If you're not sure whether yours is suitable, bring it anyway and we'll help.

Question 4

Do I need to create any accounts or install anything before I arrive?

Accepted Answer

No preparation needed. Just turn up. Everything is explained from scratch on the night.

Question 5

Should I bring a pen and notepad?

Accepted Answer

A pen is a good idea. We provide printed handouts but many people like to add their own notes. We have some spare pens on the night if you forget.

Question 6

What if I forget to bring something?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry about it. The sessions work perfectly well without any equipment. The printed guide we hand out at each session covers everything so you can take action at home later.

Question 7

Can I bring reading glasses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please do. We project everything onto a large screen and print the handouts in a readable size, but if you normally use reading glasses you'll be more comfortable with them.

Question 8

Where exactly is the venue?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are held at Stevenage Central Library, Southgate, Stevenage, SG1 1HD. It's in the town centre, a short walk from the bus station and Stevenage train station. There is paid parking nearby at the town centre car parks.

Question 9

What time should I arrive?

Accepted Answer

Doors open about 15 minutes before the start time. You don't need to arrive early, but coming a few minutes before helps you get settled and find a seat before we start. The session runs for 90 minutes from the advertised start time.

Question 10

How long does the session last?

Accepted Answer

Each session is 90 minutes: usually 70 to 75 minutes of content plus time for questions. We try to finish on time so you're not kept late.

Question 11

What's the room like?

Accepted Answer

A comfortable community space with chairs and tables, a large projected screen, and good lighting. Nothing formal or classroom-like. We keep the group small, maximum 20 people, so it feels relaxed and personal.

Question 12

Is there parking nearby?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are several pay-and-display car parks close to Stevenage Central Library. The Westgate car park is the closest. Evening rates are generally lower than daytime, so check the signage when you arrive.

Question 13

Is the venue accessible?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Stevenage Central Library is a fully accessible building with step-free access, a lift, and accessible toilets. If you have specific requirements, please get in touch before the session so we can make sure everything is set up for you.

Question 14

Will there be refreshments?

Accepted Answer

We don't provide food or drinks during sessions, but you're welcome to bring your own. The library has a café area nearby if you want something before the session.

Question 15

Can I leave early if I need to?

Accepted Answer

Yes, of course. Please try to sit near the end of a row if you think you might need to leave early, to avoid disrupting others.

Question 16

Will it be recorded?

Accepted Answer

No. Sessions are not recorded or streamed. This is intentional: a lot of what we discuss involves demonstrating real techniques, and we want people to feel comfortable asking questions without worrying about being on camera.

Question 17

Is there a dress code?

Accepted Answer

No. Come as you are.

Question 18

Do the sessions have to be done in order?

Accepted Answer

No. Each session is completely standalone. You can attend any one, two, three, or all four in any order. Every session makes sense on its own without needing context from the others.

Question 19

What level is the content aimed at?

Accepted Answer

At someone who uses the internet regularly but doesn't have a technical background. If you use a smartphone, do online banking, shop online, or use Facebook or WhatsApp, this is aimed at you. We start from scratch on every topic, and we assume no prior knowledge.

Question 20

Will there be time for questions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every session includes time for questions throughout and at the end. We actively encourage them; there are no stupid questions. The things you want to ask are usually exactly what everyone else in the room is thinking too.

Question 21

Is this suitable if I'm not very good with technology?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. That's exactly who this is designed for. We explain everything in plain English with no jargon. The sessions are built for people who use technology every day but have never had anyone explain how it actually works.

Question 22

I already know the basics. Will I still learn something?

Accepted Answer

Very likely. Even people who are comfortable with technology are often surprised by what they didn't know, particularly in Session 1 (what the internet already knows about you) and Session 2 (how sophisticated modern scams have become). The live demonstrations tend to change how you think about your online habits.

Question 23

Will I be asked to do anything embarrassing or share personal information?

Accepted Answer

No. We never ask you to share anything personal or log in to anything in front of the group. Any live demonstrations use the presenter's own equipment. All exercises are optional and you can follow along on screen without participating.

Question 24

Is the content up to date?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We review and update every session to reflect current scams and threats, so what you learn is based on what is actually happening right now.

Question 25

Do you cover Apple or Android?

Accepted Answer

Both. We cover the most common settings and steps on both iPhone and Android throughout the sessions. Where the process differs between the two, we show both.

Question 26

Will you cover WhatsApp scams?

Accepted Answer

Yes. WhatsApp fraud, including the 'Hi Mum' scam and impersonation fraud, is covered in Session 2 (Spotting scams).

Question 27

Do you cover AI scams?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Session 2 includes a section on AI-generated voice calls and deepfakes: how they work, how convincing they sound, and what to do if you receive one.

Question 28

What's the printed guide like?

Accepted Answer

Each session comes with a printed take-home guide summarising the key points, the things to do at home, and useful contacts like Action Fraud and the ICO. It's designed to be kept and referred back to, not thrown away after the night.

Question 29

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Head to our Book page to see upcoming sessions. Click the booking link for the session you want. It takes you to Eventbrite where you can pay by card or PayPal. You'll get a confirmation email straight away with everything you need.

Question 30

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Session 1 is £20, Session 2 is £25, Session 3 is £30, and Session 4 is £40. If you want to attend all four, book the complete course for £99, saving £16 compared to booking individually. Try Session 1 as a taster first, then decide.

Question 31

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Payment is handled through Eventbrite. You can pay by debit card, credit card, or PayPal. Your payment is processed securely by Eventbrite; we never see your card details.

Question 32

What if I can't make it after I've booked?

Accepted Answer

You can request a refund through Eventbrite up to 7 days before the event. You can also transfer your ticket to someone else at any time. Log in to your Eventbrite account or check your confirmation email to manage your booking.

Question 33

Can I book for a friend or family member?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When booking on Eventbrite, you can purchase multiple tickets and enter a different name and email for each attendee. Your friend or family member will receive their own confirmation email directly.

Question 34

Are there discounts or concessionary prices?

Accepted Answer

We want the sessions to be accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please get in touch via our Contact page and we'll do our best to help. We also offer the full four-session course for £99 (saving £16 compared to booking individually).

Question 35

Can I pay on the door?

Accepted Answer

No. Booking in advance through Eventbrite is required. This helps us manage numbers and ensures you have a confirmed place. Sessions sell out, so please don't turn up without a ticket.

Question 36

What happens if the session sells out?

Accepted Answer

We keep sessions to a maximum of 20 people. If a session is full, keep an eye on the Book page; additional sessions are added regularly. You can also contact us to be notified when new dates are announced.

Question 37

Will you run more dates if I miss one?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We run each session topic multiple times throughout the year. If a date doesn't work for you, check back on the Book page for upcoming dates or contact us to be added to the notification list.

Question 38

What age is this aimed at?

Accepted Answer

The sessions are designed for adults of any age, but the content, pace, and style are particularly well-suited for people in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. There is no upper age limit. Younger adults who want to understand internet safety also benefit; the content is not dumbed down.

Question 39

I'm in my 70s / 80s. Will I keep up?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The sessions are deliberately paced for people who didn't grow up with this technology. We never assume prior knowledge and we explain every term we use. If you're not sure about something, just ask; that's what the sessions are for.

Question 40

Can I come if English is my second language?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We speak plain, straightforward English and avoid technical jargon. If you have a specific language requirement, please get in touch and we'll do our best to accommodate you.

Question 41

I'm worried I'll look foolish in front of other people.

Accepted Answer

The room is full of people who feel exactly the same way. We design the sessions specifically so no one feels stupid or singled out. The average attendee is in their late 50s and most have never been taught any of this. You are in very good company.

Question 42

Can I bring my partner or a friend?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please do. Each person needs their own ticket, but attending with someone you know often makes it easier to ask questions and to practise what you've learned together at home afterwards.

Question 43

Is this suitable for someone who has already been scammed?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Being scammed is extremely common and not something to be ashamed of. Scammers are sophisticated and deliberately target intelligent, trusting people. Understanding what happened and how to protect yourself going forward is exactly what these sessions are for.

Question 44

Can you run a session for our group or organisation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer private flat-fee sessions for organisations including Age UK branches, libraries, councils, community groups, charities, and businesses. We come to you, at a venue and time that suits your group. Visit our For Organisations page or get in touch to discuss.

Question 45

How many people can you accommodate for a private session?

Accepted Answer

Up to 30 participants for a private session. For groups larger than that, please get in touch and we'll discuss options.

Question 46

Do you come to us, or do we need to come to Stevenage?

Accepted Answer

For private organisation bookings we come to you, anywhere in Stevenage and Hertfordshire. Travel further afield can be discussed.

Question 47

How much does an organisation session cost?

Accepted Answer

Private sessions start from £250 for a single session. A two-session package is available from £600. Pricing depends on your location and requirements; contact us for a specific quote.

Frequently asked questions

Before you come

On the night

The content

Booking and cost

Is it right for me?

Groups and organisations

Ready to feel more confident online?