Cybercriminals aren’t slowing down — and neither is Canada’s response.
The federal government has introduced a new National Cyber Security Strategy (NCSS), aiming to strengthen the country’s resilience against evolving cyber threats.
Minister David McGuinty announced the initiative, emphasizing a “whole-of-society” approach to cyber security in an increasingly interconnected world.
To support these efforts, the new NCSS is backed by an initial investment of $37.8 million over six years for cyber security initiatives. This includes funding for awareness and education programs aimed at equipping children and youth with the knowledge to navigate digital spaces safely.
Addressing a growing cyber threat landscape
Technology underpins Canada’s critical infrastructure, from hospitals and energy suppliers to transit and telecommunications networks. With that reliance comes an expanding attack surface for cybercriminals, creating risks to national security and economic stability.
The new NCSS sets out a long-term framework to enhance cooperation among governments, industry, Indigenous communities, academia, and international allies. It aims to reduce disruptions to essential services, facilitate faster information sharing, and promote stronger preventive measures.
The strategy focuses on an approach based on three pillars:
- Work with partners to protect Canadians and Canadian business from cyber threats
- Make Canada a global cyber security industry leader
- Detect and disrupt cyber threat actors
“Canada must continue to be a leader in cyber security, especially in the face of persistent and ongoing cyber threats,” McGuinty said in a statement.
“The new National Cyber Security Strategy demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to a whole-of-society and agile approach to protecting our nation’s cyber security for citizens across our great country, for Canadian businesses and for essential cross-border services and critical infrastructure.”
The strategy also underscores Canada’s commitment to aligning its cyber security efforts with the United States and other allies. The goal is to bolster cross-border infrastructure protections and ensure a unified approach to deterring cyber threats.
Building on past initiatives
The NCSS builds on the foundation laid by the 2018 strategy, which established key cyber security institutions such as the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and the National Cybercrime Coordination Centre under the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Other recent efforts include the launch of a Cyber Attribution Data Centre at the University of New Brunswick, announced in December 2024, to enhance Canada’s capabilities in identifying and countering cyber threats. Additionally, the Federal Cyber Incident Response Plan, published in 2023, provides protocols for managing cyber security incidents affecting non-governmental systems.
Looking ahead
The government’s latest National Cyber Threat Assessment for 2025-2026 warns that malicious actors will continue to target Canadians through fraud, scams, and ransomware attacks. The NCSS is positioned as a proactive response to these challenges, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to maintaining a secure, stable, and accessible digital environment for all citizens.
As cyber threats evolve, so too will Canada’s approach. With a renewed emphasis on collaboration, investment, and education, the government aims to ensure the country remains resilient in an increasingly digital world.
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