Cybersecurity: Critical for Information Management and Security

Sensitive information related to human pathogens and toxins are often stored electronically. As organizations shift to telework, this sensitive information may become available through internal computer networks and cloud storage solutions.

You should work with your information technology department to make sure your organization is following current best practices for cybersecurity.

In December 2021, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) issued an alert about a cyber threat. It highlighted a vulnerability in Log4j. This is a widely deployed Java-based logging utility used in many online applications. As a precaution, many organizations took their applications offline. This example shows the importance of regularly updating your cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

The Cyber Centre is Canada's national authority for cybersecurity. If you have a question about your systems, the Cyber Centre is your first point of contact.

You can also contact Public Safety at ps.rrap-perr.sp@canada.ca to test your IT systems for vulnerabilities and identify improvements. They offer optional assessments and free Review and Analysis Tools.

You may share the findings in your Biosecurity Risk Assessment or Biosecurity Plan to show how you're addressing security risks. If a private company assesses your IT system, please ensure they have the appropriate security clearance to have access to information about your security access control methods.

For more information, please refer to the Cyber Centre.