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Global Affairs Canada investigating ‘malicious’ cyberattack and data breach

Jan 30, 2024 | 2:45 PM

OTTAWA — Global Affairs Canada says it is investigating a cyberattack and data breach that has forced it to limit remote access to its networks.

A statement from the department today says early results from the investigation found that someone accessed personal information of users, including employees.

Global Affairs says it shut down remote access to its national networks nearly a week ago, following the discovery of what it describes as “malicious cyber activity.”

Employees working within Global Affairs buildings have full access to the network, while employees working remotely have been given “workarounds” to allow them to keep working.

The federal department that manages Canada’s foreign affairs, including its overseas embassies and high commissions, says its critical that services and communication channels remain accessible.

Shared Services Canada and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security are involved in the investigation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 30, 2024.

The Canadian Press