In this blog, titled Canadian Airport Cybersecurity Incidents, we analyze the wave of cybersecurity breaches that struck major Canadian airports in October 2025, and explore practical ways organizations can protect their operational technology (OT) systems. As recent events at Kelowna, Windsor, and Victoria airports revealed, cyberattacks targeting cloud-based OT solutions can disrupt critical public communication infrastructure—even without directly impacting aviation safety.
What Happened in Canadian Airports?
This October, hackers infiltrated cloud software controlling public announcement and flight information displays at several Canadian airports. Political and pro-Hamas messages appeared on screens and PA systems, briefly confusing travelers and delaying flights. Security teams responded swiftly, isolating and restoring the systems while keeping core airport operations unaffected through strong network segmentation. These attacks mirrored similar breaches in U.S. airports, showing a broader campaign against cloud-based OT environments.
What’s Driving the Threat?
National reports highlight a rapid rise in OT cyber incidents, fueled by increased digital connectivity and reliance on third-party cloud providers. The 2025–2026 National Cyber Threat Assessment confirms that ransomware, hacktivism, and supply chain risks remain major threats to Canadian infrastructure. Airports and other critical sectors must realize that any public-facing or cloud-connected OT system can be a target.
Basic Protection Tips Against OT Cybersecurity Attacks
- Strict Network Segmentation: Isolate OT systems from IT networks and public internet access.
- Regular Software Audits: Frequently assess and update all third-party cloud software for vulnerabilities.
- Multi-factor Authentication: Protect access to control systems with strong authentication for all users.
- Incident Response Plans: Prepare and rehearse how to quickly isolate and recover compromised systems.
- Vigilant Monitoring: Use real-time security monitoring and threat intelligence to spot and respond to unusual activity.
- Staff Training: Educate all operational and IT staff on current risks and suspicious behavior to report.
How WE Can Help
We are specialized in securing Canadian airports and other critical infrastructure by providing:
- Custom OT security assessments and segmentation strategies tailored for each organization.
- Third-party software vulnerability reviews and vendor risk management.
- 24/7 monitoring, threat intelligence, and rapid incident response support.
- Staff awareness training and compliance guidance with national standards.
- Direct collaboration with national cybersecurity networks for up-to-date protection resources.
Contact us for expert tips, incident response solutions, and to access the latest cyber threat intelligence for Canadian airports and infrastructure.
Authoritative Resources for Further Reading
- Canadian Centre for Cyber Security – National Cyber Threat Assessment 2025–2026
- Canadian Cybersecurity Network – State of Cybersecurity in Canada 2025 (PDF)
- Canadian Cybersecurity Network – OT Cybersecurity Report
- Recent News Coverage of Canadian Airport OT Incidents: