On February 6, 2025, the Government of Canada officially launched "Securing Canada's Digital Future," the new National Cyber Security Strategy (NCSS). Replacing the 2018 strategy, the NCSS adopts a whole-of-society approach that deepens partnerships with provincial and territorial governments, law enforcement agencies, Indigenous communities, the private sector, and academia to strengthen Canada's cyber resilience.
The New Strategy
The NCSS recognizes that cybersecurity is no longer solely a technology issue but a national security and economic priority. The strategy sets out a comprehensive framework to protect Canadians, Canadian businesses, and critical infrastructure from evolving cyber threats. It emphasizes shared responsibility and coordinated action across all sectors of Canadian society.
Key Pillars
- Protecting Canadians: Strengthening protections for individuals, families, and vulnerable populations against cybercrime and online fraud
- Securing Government Systems: Hardening federal IT infrastructure and improving inter-governmental cybersecurity coordination
- Partnering with Industry: Establishing new frameworks for public-private collaboration on threat intelligence sharing and incident response
- Building a Cyber Workforce: Investing in cybersecurity education, training, and talent development programs across Canada
- Advancing International Leadership: Positioning Canada as a leader in global cybersecurity norms, standards, and capacity building
Canadian Cyber Security Certification
A significant component of the NCSS is the introduction of the Canadian Cyber Security Certification (CCSC) program, specifically designed for the defence sector. Modelled after the U.S. Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), the CCSC will require defence contractors and suppliers to demonstrate compliance with specified cybersecurity standards before being awarded government contracts. This program aims to protect controlled unclassified information across Canada's defence supply chain.
Impact on Private Sector
Private sector organizations, particularly those operating in critical infrastructure sectors, should expect increased regulatory requirements. The strategy calls for mandatory cybersecurity standards in key industries, enhanced incident reporting obligations, and greater accountability for boards and senior executives. Organizations that proactively align with the NCSS framework will be better positioned when formal regulations take effect.
Bill C-8 and Critical Infrastructure
The NCSS works in tandem with proposed legislative measures, most notably Bill C-8 (the Critical Cyber Systems Protection Act), which will establish mandatory cybersecurity requirements for operators of vital services including telecommunications, energy, finance, and transportation. Together, the strategy and legislation represent the most significant overhaul of Canada's cybersecurity posture in a decade.
What Organizations Should Do Now
- Review the NCSS framework and assess alignment with your current cybersecurity program
- Conduct a gap analysis against anticipated regulatory requirements for your sector
- Evaluate your incident response and reporting capabilities
- Begin preparing for the Canadian Cyber Security Certification if you operate in the defence supply chain
- Engage with industry associations and working groups contributing to NCSS implementation
- Invest in employee cybersecurity awareness and training programs