OTTAWA–Canada’s electronic spies have been given almost total responsibility for defending the federal government’s computer networks against cyber attacks and hacks.
Under the Liberal government’s updated cyber security plan, released Tuesday, the Communications Security Establishment (CSE) will become a “one-stop shop” for defending federal networks and systems.
The federal government has announced the establishment of a new Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale says the centre will provide expert support to governments, businesses and individuals. (The Canadian Press)
“(We’ll) be defending Government of Canada networks, unlike (our assistance) to the private sector where we’ll typically be providing advice and guidance,” Scott Jones, the head of CSE’s IT Security branch, told the Star.
“It’ll be an integrated defence for any Government of Canada organization.”
Currently the responsibility to protect the federal government’s networks is shared by multiple agencies. CSE already has an IT security role, in addition to its mandates to spy on foreign governments and individuals and assist domestic law enforcement.
Article Continued Below
But under the Liberals plan, CSE’s cyber security division would be transformed into the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. The plan means an influx of cyber security staff at the spy agency, and $155.2 million over five years to get the centre up and running.
Technology and Security 