New mandatory cyber security course – complete by March 31, 2025

January 16, 2025 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 2:00

Protecting our digital frontlines

All departments and agencies play a critical role in ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the Government of Canada’s (GC) information and networks. Without proper cyber security measures, departments and agencies are vulnerable and at risk of compromise. By increasing the cyber security awareness of all Defence Team embers through standardized training, the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) can increase our resilience against cyber threats and ensure that cyber security fundamentals are consistent across DND.

To protect the GC’s information and networks, Treasury Board of Canada’s Secretariat, in collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security Learning Hub and the Canada School of Public Service Digital Academy, has developed the Discover Cyber Security course (DDN235).

Who needs to complete this course by March 31, 2025, with a yearly recertification thereafter:

• Public Servants: All public service employees including indeterminate and term employees, students, and casual workers.
• CAF Participation: All CAF members are highly encouraged to complete this training, with a CANFORGEN forthcoming to formalize this requirement.
• Contractor Compliance: Contractors working on DND and CAF networks and computers must complete the training.

The course completion of Discover Cyber Security (DDN235) will be entered in the DND employees and military members training records through a weekly mass upload.

Why this course matters

Cyber security is not just an Information Technology issue; it is everyone's responsibility. The Discover Cyber Security course aims to build a greater awareness and understanding of the reality of cyber risks. Participants will explore common security vulnerabilities and threats, such as malware, password attacks, and social engineering. By equipping all Defence Team members with this knowledge, we strengthen our ability to protect sensitive information and maintain operational integrity.

Moving forward

The deadline to complete the course is fast approaching, and it is crucial to act promptly. Managers are urged to encourage their teams to register and complete the course.

Defence Team members that have already completed the DDN235 training course prior to March 31, 2025, will be required to recertify one year from their completion date. New Defence Team members must complete the training within three months of their start date.

Register now

This is a self-paced online course, with a duration of approximately 45 minutes. To register or learn more, please visit the Canada School of Public Service website.