In an era where technology intertwines with essential services like healthcare, transportation, energy, and telecommunications, the Government of Canada has introduced a new National Cyber Security Strategy (NCSS) to safeguard its citizens and infrastructure.
This initiative aims to address the rapidly evolving cyber threats that pose significant risks to national and economic security.
Securing Canada’s Digital Future
The NCSS emphasizes a comprehensive approach to cyber security, recognizing that every segment of society plays a role in building collective resilience against cyber threats.
The strategy outlines Canada’s long-term plan to enhance partnerships across all levels of government, law enforcement, industry, Indigenous communities, academia, and international allies.
This collaborative effort seeks to reduce disruptions to critical infrastructure services that Canadians rely on daily.
Enhancing Information Sharing and Prevention
A key component of the strategy is facilitating faster information sharing among partners to ensure timely measures are taken to prevent cyber incidents.
By improving communication channels and protocols, the NCSS aims to create a more responsive and proactive defense against potential cyber threats.
Investing in Education and Awareness
The strategy allocates funding for initiatives designed to bolster the nation’s cyber security. This includes awareness and education programs targeting children and youth, ensuring they can fully participate in the digital age while being resilient and prepared against cyber threats.
Aligning with International Partners
The NCSS supports Canada-U.S. cross-border critical infrastructure and cyber resilience, aligning Canada’s approach to cyber security with that of the U.S. and other international allies.
This alignment ensures that Canada remains a safe place to live and work online, fostering international cooperation in the fight against cyber threats.
Commitment to a Secure Digital Landscape
In the face of an ever-evolving cyber threat landscape and emerging technologies, the Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that cyberspace remains safe, open, secure, stable, and accessible to all Canadians. This commitment allows citizens and the nation to fully benefit from a secure digital world.
| Key Aspect | Description | Objective | Target Audience | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Securing Canada’s Digital Future | Emphasizes a whole-of-society approach to cyber security, involving various sectors in building resilience. | Enhance partnerships to reduce critical infrastructure disruptions. | Government, law enforcement, industry, Indigenous communities, academia, international allies | Improved collaboration and reduced service disruptions. |
| Enhancing Information Sharing | Facilitates faster information sharing among partners to prevent cyber incidents. | Create responsive and proactive defense mechanisms. | All partners involved in cyber security efforts | Timely measures and improved prevention of cyber threats. |
| Investing in Education and Awareness | Funds initiatives for awareness and education programs targeting children and youth. | Ensure youth are resilient and prepared in the digital age. | Children and youth | A digitally literate and cyber-aware younger generation. |
| Aligning with International Partners | Supports cross-border critical infrastructure and aligns cyber resilience strategies with international allies. | Foster international cooperation in cyber security. | Canada, U.S., and other international allies | A unified approach to combating cyber threats globally. |
The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of Public Safety, stated, “Canada must continue to be a leader in cyber security, especially in the face of persistent and ongoing cyber threats.
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.”
FAQs
What is the main goal of Canada’s new National Cyber Security Strategy?
The primary goal is to protect Canada’s national security and economy by enhancing partnerships across various sectors to build resilience against evolving cyber threats.
How does the strategy plan to involve different segments of society?
The strategy focuses on a whole-of-society approach, involving government entities, law enforcement, industry, Indigenous communities, academia, and international allies in collaborative efforts to strengthen cyber security.
What initiatives are included to educate the younger population?
The strategy funds awareness and education programs aimed at children and youth, ensuring they are equipped to participate safely and responsibly in the digital age.