Home Sections Privacy & Security BC government employee email targeted in cyberattack

BC government employee email targeted in cyberattack

BC Public Service emails were impacted, but not any Cabinet Minister InBoxes, said Public Safety Minister Mike Fartnworth.

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Cyber security refers to every aspect of protecting an organization and its employees and assets against cyber threats.
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Tuesday June 4, 2024 | VICTORIA, BC

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Information is being released bit by bit about the cyberattack “by state actors” as was first made public on May 8.

mike farnworth, public safety minister
Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth addressed media on June 3, 2024 regarding ongoing investigation into cyberattack on BC Government systems. [June 3, 2024]

Yesterday, the BC government confirmed that it lost sensitive information in a cyberattack.

Public Safety Minister and Attorney General Mike Farnworth held a media announcement at noon from the Vancouver Cabinet Office “for an update about the recent cybersecurity incident.” [See June 3, 2024 BC Government livestream]

Of the 22 email accounts accessed by hackers, and the files of at least 19 employee files were accessed. The InBox of one of those employees contained personal family information. All individuals have been notified and will receive credit monitoring.

Public Service emails were involved but not including the email of any cabinet members, Farnworth confirmed.

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The full story is no doubt still to come to light.

So far, no breech of public information:

Yesterday Farnworth said that there is no evidence of breech of public information. Back on May 10 Farnworth’s cyberattack update mentioned no breech of government information.

“I know this situation is concerning for many,” said Farnworth.

Investigation continues:

The BC government continues to work with the Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity in sorting this out. “We are committed to sharing what we could without compromising the ongoing and very complex investigation,” said Farnworth.

A team of of 76 personnel in the Minister of Citizens’ Services works on cybersecurity as their sole job responsibility. Significant investments were made three years ago (Farnworth again today mentioned $68 million) so that the integrity of the system is not compromised. Each ministry also has a staff person dedicated to the cyber issue.

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Looking at the actions taken by “a state actor or state-sponsored actor” is still part of the investigation that is underway, said Farnworth.

Updates will continue, without compromising the situation, Farnworth said.

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