CRTC and RCMP National Division Execute Warrants in Malware Investigation

From: Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

News release

March 28, 2019 – Gatineau – Ottawa - Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

Yesterday, the CRTC and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) National Division each executed a warrant at a residence located in the Greater Toronto Area. The operation is part of an international coordinated effort with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Australian Federal Police.

The warrants were obtained as part of ongoing parallel investigations into Remote Access Trojan (RAT) technology. This type of malicious software (malware) enables remote access to Canadian computers, without their users’ consent and can lead to the subsequent installation of other malware and theft of personal information.

Tips from international private cyber security firms triggered the investigation.

The CRTC does not comment on active investigations, nor does it name the individuals or companies under investigation. Further information will be communicated when the investigation is concluded.

Quotes

“The execution of this warrant illustrates how our enforcement efforts are focused on online malicious activities. We strive to protect Canadians from online threats, and this lengthy and complex investigation is an example of our commitment. We are grateful for the instrumental collaboration we obtained from our domestic and international partners in this case.”

Steven Harroun, Chief Compliance and Enforcement Officer, Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

Quick facts

  • The CRTC executed a warrant under Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) and the RCMP National Division executed a search warrant under the Criminal Code respectively.

  • The RCMP National Division Cybercrime Investigative Team is currently leading the Criminal Code investigation in Canada.

  • The CRTC is committed to working with partners in the public and private sectors to enhance information sharing, improve target identification and coordinate operational responses.

  • With the assistance of domestic and international partners, the CRTC investigates alleged violations under CASL.

  • Information collected by the Spam Reporting Centre is used by the CRTC, the Competition Bureau and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner to enforce CASL.

  • Canadians and private entities are encouraged to report spam, malware and other electronic threats to the Spam Reporting Centre.

  • To protect your devices against online threats, consult the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.

  • CASL protects Canadians from online threats while ensuring businesses can continue to compete in the global digital marketplace.

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