Federal Government Sounds Alarm on Growing Cyber Threats

The Government of Canada has issued a stark warning about the rising danger of cyber attacks targeting the country’s most essential services. In a joint statement released on November 26, 2025, the Minister of National Defence and the Minister of Public Safety called the threat to Canada’s critical infrastructure “real and urgent.”

This warning directly impacts the services Saint John residents rely on daily. Critical infrastructure includes the systems that manage our power grid, clean water supply, healthcare facilities, financial networks, and transportation systems. Any disruption could pose a significant risk to public safety and the local economy.

“Malicious cyber activity targeting Canada’s critical infrastructure—like power, water, health, finance and transportation—are on the rise,” the statement reads. “Any disruption to critical infrastructure is not only a threat to public health and safety, but also a threat to public confidence, the environment and the economy.”

Who is Behind the Attacks?

The government identifies two main groups of adversaries: state-sponsored actors and non-state actors. State-sponsored groups have the sophisticated capabilities to infiltrate Canadian systems, potentially lying in wait to cause disruption during a crisis or conflict.

Meanwhile, cybercriminals and other groups continue to target these essential services for financial gain, to advance political or ideological goals, or even for personal reasons like revenge from a former employee.

A Call to Action for Infrastructure Operators

The federal government is urging all operators of critical infrastructure, particularly municipalities and private businesses, to act immediately to strengthen their security.

“This is a call to be ready,” the ministers stated. “Too often, hostile actors gain access to critical infrastructure through weaknesses that are preventable.”

Operators are advised to adopt best practices in cybersecurity, report incidents quickly, and work closely with government agencies to prevent and respond to threats. The government emphasized that protecting these systems is a shared responsibility, essential for keeping Canadians safe and the economy strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered ‘critical infrastructure’?

Critical infrastructure refers to the essential services that are vital for the functioning of our society and economy. This includes sectors such as power, water, healthcare, finance, and transportation.

Who is conducting these cyber attacks?

The threats come from a range of sources, including highly sophisticated state-sponsored cyber actors as well as non-state actors like cybercriminals, who may be motivated by financial gain or ideological interests.

What is the government recommending?

The government is calling on all critical infrastructure operators to be vigilant and take immediate action. This includes adopting best practices in cybersecurity, reporting incidents promptly, and collaborating with government agencies to mitigate threats.

Why was this warning issued now?

The joint statement was issued because malicious cyber activities targeting Canada’s essential services are increasing in frequency and sophistication, posing what the government describes as a “real and urgent threat” to national security and public safety.