Canada is facing an unprecedented surge in cyberattacks, with incidents targeting everything from government agencies and healthcare providers to schools and utilities. If you run a business in Canada, understanding these threats and how to defend against them is more important than ever, in this blog we will discuss the latest cyberattacks in Canada and how to avoid them.

The 10 Most Recent High-Profile Cyberattacks in Canada

Here’s a snapshot of major cyber incidents reported in the last year:

• Nova Scotia Power & Emera (April 2025): A disruptive cyberattack shut down IT systems and disrupted customer service, though power supply was not affected
• RCMP Data Breach (February 2025): The Royal Canadian Mounted Police suffered a supply chain attack, compromising sensitive systems and causing operational disruptions
• Ganong Bros. Ransomware (February 2025): The New Brunswick-based chocolate maker had production halted by ransomware
• Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (January 2025): A cyberattack disrupted IT systems across multiple schools
• Brunswick Health Group (March 2025): A security breach affected patient data and care delivery
• OPSEU & Limestone District School Board (April 2025): Both organizations reported cyber incidents affecting operations
• Visionary Holdings (May 2025): The Toronto company was compromised, exposing risks for digital-first SMBs
• Alamos Gold (January 2024): The mining company in Toronto suffered a cyberattack, highlighting risks in the resource sector
• Manitoba Justice (December 2024): A provincial government service provider was hit, affecting justice services in Manitoba
• Pembina Trails School Division (December 2024): A cyberattack targeted school administration in Winnipeg

These attacks underline a critical message: No industry is off-limits. Whether you’re in manufacturing, healthcare, education, or energy, your organization could be a target

Why Are Cyberattacks Increasing in Canada?

• Ransomware remains the top threat: Attackers are targeting critical infrastructure, demanding high ransoms, and causing business disruptions
• Supply chain vulnerabilities: Even trusted third-party providers can be entry points for attackers, as seen in the RCMP breach
• State-sponsored threats: Countries like China and Russia are increasingly aggressive, targeting government and business networks for espionage and sabotage
• Cybercrime-as-a-service: Criminals now offer hacking tools and services for hire, making attacks easier and more frequent

How Can Any Company Avoid Most Cyberattacks?

You don’t need to be a tech expert to protect your business. Here are practical, non-technical steps every company should take:

• Educate Your Team: Train staff to spot phishing emails and suspicious links. Human error is often the easiest way in for attackers
• Update Software Regularly: Many attacks exploit outdated programs. Enable automatic updates wherever possible
• Use Strong Passwords: Require unique, complex passwords and consider two-factor authentication for all accounts
• Back Up Your Data: Regularly back up important files to a secure, offsite location. This can save your business if ransomware strikes
• Review Vendor Security: Make sure your suppliers and partners follow good cybersecurity practices, since their weaknesses can become your problem
• Have a Response Plan: Know what to do if you’re attacked—who to call, how to isolate affected systems, and how to notify customers

The Bottom Line: Every Business Is a Target

Cyberattacks in Canada are not just a problem for big companies or government agencies. Small and medium businesses are increasingly in the crosshairs, often because they have fewer resources and less robust defenses

Need Help Protecting Your Business?

At Secur-IT Data Solutions, we specialize in helping Canadian organizations build practical, effective cybersecurity plans. Whether you need staff training, security assessments, or a full incident response plan, our team is here to help you stay safe—without the jargon.

Protect your business before it’s too late. Contact us today to get started on your cybersecurity plan.