Nearly two-thirds of all seniors who go online say they have been the victim, or target, of a scam or hack.

That according to a survey conducted by Home Instead Senior Care.

The survey further states 39 per cent of seniors say someone has tried to scam them and nearly a third have inadvertently downloaded a computer virus.

“We understand the stress seniors feel when they perceive their financial security – and their independence – may be at risk,” said Don Henke, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care office serving Kelowna and Penticton.

“Unfortunately, we know scammers often target seniors. That’s why we’re committed to educating and empowering seniors to proactively protect themselves. Implementing simple cybersecurity best practices can go a long way in helping seniors protect sensitive information and reduce their risks online.”

In collaboration with Public Safety Canada, the company has launched a national public education program, Protect Seniors Online.

The program offers free resources and tips to help seniors understand how scammers operate, familiarize themselves with the most common scams, and provides proactive steps they can take to protect sensitive information.

According to the study, about 96 per cent of seniors in Canada age 70 and over are using the internet at least once a week to check email, keep in touch with family and friends, and manage money.

Courtesy of Castanet Kelowna