Naples – The "Beware of the Fraudster" campaign, an initiative promoted by the City of Naples and funded by the Ministry of the Interior to combat scams targeting seniors, concluded this morning at the Basilica of San Giacomo degli Spagnoli. This initiative went beyond territorial surveillance to delve into the depths of social fragility to restore trust among the most vulnerable citizens.
An integrated strategy: beyond the currency
Councilor for Legal Affairs Antonio de Iesu emphasized that the heart of the project was its humane approach. "We didn't stop at repression alone," de Iesu stated. "We focused on education and post-event psychological support. The goal is to break down the wall of isolation and shame that often affects those who have been scammed. Strengthening the connection with institutions is the true key to self-protection."
Capillarity and listening: the numbers of the intervention
The project has transformed the city into an active protection network through several guidelines:
Local police presence: Local police officers, both uniformed and plainclothes, monitored post offices, markets, and gathering places, especially during pension collection days.
Mobile Help Desk: For 13 weeks, thanks to the collaboration with the "Progetto Uomo" Cooperative, a mobile unit traveled through all 10 municipalities offering guidance and social support.
Parish Training: Thirty-five face-to-face meetings were organized to educate seniors about modern dangers, from love bombing to cyber tampering.
The Local Police among the people
The operational role of the Municipal Police was crucial. Commander Ciro Esposito emphasized how the officers' training focused on active listening: "We were present at the end of Masses and in community centers to establish direct dialogue. Our officers were trained not only on legal aspects, but above all on how to welcome victims."
A multi-channel campaign
To reach every corner of the city, the Municipality has deployed a massive communication effort: from subway monitors to social media, to the distribution of informational brochures in strategic locations such as pharmacies, doctors' offices, and CAF (Tax Assistance Centers). This concerted effort serves to remind everyone that, against the cunning of scammers, shared information remains the most effective weapon.
Source EDITORIAL TEAM
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