The Internet and communication technologies provide Canadians, businesses, and institutions with the essential means to access information, offer services and create opportunities. Over the years, however, the exponential growth in these technologies has also increased the potential for cyber threats. Cyber criminals are increasingly targeting and exploiting Canadian citizens, businesses, and our critical infrastructure systems.
Cyber capabilities, once rare and expensive, have now become commonplace and affordable. That, along with the borderless and anonymous nature of cybercrime, amplifies the pool of potential victims.
Cyber security has always been important, but with more and more people relying on the internet for work, day-to-day tasks, business, social connections, financial services and more, it is vital that we learn how to keep ourselves safe.
October is Cyber Security Awareness Month and the RCMP is asking Canadians to take time this month to learn about cybercrime, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you are victimized.
What can Canadians do?
- Visit the RCMP’s Cyber Safety pages and social media, as well as, Get Cyber Safe‘s website. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for great cyber tips and information!
- Know how to report a cybercrime or cyber fraud. If an individual, business or organization experiences a cybercrime, they should contact their local police immediately. It’s also important that they report the incident, whether they fell victim or not, to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or toll-free at 1-888-495-8501.
- Share the information you learn with those around you!
What is law enforcement doing?
The criminal exploitation of new and emerging technologies requires new policing measures to keep pace in a digital era. Cybercrime investigations are complex and technical in nature. They require strong domestic and international partnerships, specialized investigative skills, and advanced tools and technologies. The RCMP takes cybercrime seriously and has a number of programs, units and teams actively working on it, including:
- National Cybercrime Coordination Unit (NC3)
- Federal Policing Cybercrime
- Cybercrime Investigative Teams including Cyber Capability Specialists from federal, provincial, local and international police
- Cyber Capability Specialists
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
The RCMP works closely with law enforcement partners and other lead security agencies, private and public sectors, including academia in Canada and abroad, to investigate and address cybercrime. Learn more about how we combat cybercrime.
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