Cybersecurity plan for federal government takes aim at ‘inefficiencies, blind spots’

OTTAWA — The federal government is unfurling a new cybersecurity strategy aimed at protecting its vast array of systems against a growing variety of threats.

The strategy released today says while the government has made progress on improving cybersecurity in recent years, the online dangers have advanced even faster.

It says a renewed commitment is needed across departments and agencies to digitally deliver secure and reliable government services to Canadians.

The strategy acknowledges the government is an attractive target due to its holdings of personal information, valuable research data and other sensitive material.

It cites current gaps including varying approaches to security across government, reliance on outdated models and weak information management practices.

The plan aims to clearly spell out the security risks to government systems, prevent attacks more effectively and strengthen capabilities across agencies.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 22, 2024.

The Canadian Press