A recent report from the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) has revealed that at least 20 Canadian government networks have been compromised by Chinese state-sponsored threat actors over the past four years. This brazen attack on Canada’s cyber security has raised concerns about the potential for espionage, data theft, and disruption of critical services.
Overview of the Threat
The Cyber Centre’s National Cyber Threat Assessment 2025-2026 provides a comprehensive overview of the threats facing Canada’s digital landscape. According to the report:
- Chinese threat actors targeted sensitive information to advance China’s strategic, economic, and diplomatic interests.
- The attackers’ tactics were sophisticated, with dedicated resources invested in learning about each target network.
Eyes on Espionage and Interference
The data stolen by Chinese hackers is likely used to support the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) malign influence and interference activities against Canada’s democratic processes and institutions. The report highlights that espionage attacks are not the only concern; the PRC’s cyber operations also aim to:
- Disrupt critical infrastructure
- Manipulate industrial control systems
- Deny services to essential organizations
India Emerges as a New Cyber Threat
The report identifies India as an emerging cyber-threat to Canada, with growing geopolitical tensions between the two nations driving state-sponsored attacks against Canadian government networks. The tensions include allegations that the Indian government is using cyber technology to target Sikh separatists based in Canada.
State-Sponsored Attacks on the Rise
Canada’s Minister of National Defence, Bill Blair, described a “sharp increase” in both the number and severity of cyber incidents in Canada over the past two years, many of which target essential services. The report notes that state-sponsored cyber operations against Canada extend beyond espionage to:
- Disruptive attacks
- Denying service
- Deleting or leaking data
- Manipulating industrial control systems
Critical Infrastructure at Risk
The Cyber Centre warns that state actors are “pre-positioning” themselves in critical infrastructure networks in Canada for possible disruptive or destructive cyber operations. The report highlights the potential for civilian critical infrastructure to be targeted by cyber sabotage in the event of a military conflict.
Quotes from the Report
“The threat landscape is constantly evolving, and it’s essential for organizations and individuals to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard their digital assets.”
- Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre)
Recommendations
To mitigate the risks posed by state-sponsored cyber threats, we recommend that:
- Organizations implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect government networks and critical infrastructure.
- Individuals stay informed about emerging threats and take proactive steps to safeguard their digital assets.
Conclusion
The report underscores the importance of robust cyber security measures to protect Canadian government networks and critical infrastructure from state-sponsored threats. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for organizations and individuals to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard their digital assets.
