Cyber Security

Cyber security matters to everyone, everyday.

Our personal and professional lives have gone digital: we live, work and play in cyberspace. Canadians use the Internet, computers, cell phones and mobile devices every day to talk, email and text with family, friends and colleagues. We do business online everyday, from banking to shopping to accessing government services – and we do it from wherever we happen to be. Digital infrastructure makes all this possible.

Canadians – individuals, industry and government – are embracing the many advantages that cyberspace offers, and our economy and quality of life are better for it. But our increasing reliance on cyber technologies makes us more vulnerable to those who would attack our digital infrastructure to undermine our national security, economic prosperity and quality of life.

Cyber security affects us all. Cyber attacks can take many forms and have serious consequences. Individuals can be bankrupted or their identities stolen; businesses can be robbed of confidential information and intellectual property; military and national security operations can be compromised; and the systems that control critical infrastructure such as our power grids, water treatment plants and telecommunications networks can be disrupted. Dealing with cyber threats in isolation is not enough.

Everyone must do their part.

Cyber Security information for Canadians

• Why cyber security is an issue for Canadians
• Steps you can take to enhance your cyber security
• Steps that the Government is taking to enhance cyber security

Cyber Security information for Canadian businesses

• Why cyber security is an issue for Canadian businesses
• Steps you can take to enhance your cyber security
• Steps that the Government is taking to enhance cyber security

Cyber Security Awareness Month

Cyber Security Awareness Month recognizes the efforts of government, the private sector, individuals, and law enforcement in combating the global issue of cybercrime.

Each October, government and business leaders promote Cyber Security Awareness Month to remind individuals how to protect themselves and to guard against cybercrime. Cyber security is an important global issue and nations such as Australia, United Kingdom and the United States are also recognizing the occasion.

The Australian Government also holds annually its National Cyber Security Awareness Week, in partnership with industry, community and consumer groups, and all levels of government. This year's Awareness Week runs from May 30 - June 3, 2011.