ONTARIO – Cybercrime takes many forms, including phishing scams, identity theft and fraud.
As technology evolves, so do the tactics employed by cybercriminals. This makes it significantly harder for individuals, businesses, and governments to stay ahead of these digital menaces.
November is National Community Safety and Crime Prevention Month, and the Canada Safety Council is shining a spotlight on the alarming rise in cybercrime across the country.
With more Canadians relying on digital platforms for work, communication, and financial transactions, cybercrime has become one of the most pressing threats to personal and community safety.
“Cybercrime is a serious issue that affects Canadians of every walk of life,” said Gareth Jones, president and CEO of the Canada Safety Council.
“Scams, identity theft, and other forms of digital exploitation can have devastating consequences for people. These can include financial loss, emotional distress, and damage to their personal reputation.”
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, between Jan. 1 and June 30 there were 15,941 reported victims of fraud in Canada, with $284 million lost to fraudulent activity.
Given the nature of cybercrime, it is likely that instances are under-reported due to victims feeling shame at having been ensnared.
Further, police-reported cybercrime data obtained through the Government of Canada’s Open Data Portal identifies 351,166 reported cybercrime incidents in 2023, an increase of approximately 14 per cent over the 2022 reported incidents.
In response to the growing threat of cybercrime, the Canada Safety Council is urging Canadians to take proactive steps to protect themselves online.
This includes using strong, unique passwords for different accounts, enabling two-factor authentication — a process which includes an added layer of security to an account, frequently through a code sent to your mobile device — and being cautious of unsolicited messages or links that ask for personal information.
It is critical for Canadians to recognize the importance of digital safety. By adopting safe online habits, they can contribute to making communities more safe/secure.
