As Canadians spend more and more time online, one could assume that cyber safety would be second nature. Yet, despite living in an era of unparalleled access to information and education, many Canadians are still putting themselves at risk online. Canada’s theme for this year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month is Generation Cyber Safe, serving as a stark reminder that online security affects all Canadians, regardless of when they were born.
Surprisingly, Gen Z (those born between 1997 and 2009) are three times more likely to fall victim to online scams than Boomers (those born between 1947 and 1965), even though they have the highest access to cyber training. This contradiction calls for an overhaul of Canada’s approach to cybersecurity education—because online security knows no age. Prevention is key, and awareness is the first step toward a secure online presence. Below are some practical tips for staying safe online that Canadians of any age can easily implement.
The evolving landscape of cyber threats
Recent research from Check Point reported the highest increase in global cyber attacks in the last two years, with a 30% year-over-year (YOY) increase in Q2 2024, and a 13% YOY increase in ransomware attacks that involved public extortion. North America alone accounts for 58% of all reported ransomware attacks. Cyber criminals continue to exploit advancements in technology, such as deepfakes, to extend their reach and refine their tactics.
Fraud cost Canadian victims $569 million last year and continues to pose a significant threat nationwide. Common scams include grandparent scams which target seniors, exploiting their trust and preying on their emotions to trick them into sending money. Phishing is the most prevalent and well-known type of email or text scam, and an increasing number of these attacks are aimed at mobile users. In fact, more than 80% of phishing sites are specifically designed to target mobile devices. Phishing attempts can often be identified by unusual requests, such as emails asking for software installations or sensitive information, which should raise a red flag. Today, with the advent of AI, these scams employ sophisticated language, making them increasingly indistinguishable from legitimate communications.
To stay safe, always double-check URLs for inconsistencies in links and addresses, refrain from entering sensitive personal data, such as banking credentials, hover over links to verify their true destinations before clicking, and steer clear of unsolicited messages, emails, or social media posts to lay a solid foundation for online safety. If a phishing or ransomware attempt is suspected on a device or account, it is important to report it to local authorities or a national entity like the Canadian Anti-Fruad Centre. Reporting these attempts helps build a database to effectively combat cyber threats. As technology continues to evolve, learning how to operate devices vigilantly is crucial regardless of generation.
Proactive tips to stay safe online
In addition to recognizing and reporting scams, adopting proactive measures can significantly enhance cyber safety. Over 80% of hacking-related breaches are the result of stolen or weak passwords. Using a password manager can help generate and store complex passwords, reducing the risk of account compromise due to weak passwords. In 2023, only 34% of adults used a password manager, but implementing this practice can dramatically reduce the risk of account compromisation due to weak or reused passwords, a common vulnerability among internet users.
Enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is another vital step in securing online accounts. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide more than one form of verification, such as a password combined with a code sent to a mobile device. This makes it significantly more challenging for hackers to gain unauthorized access, even if they successfully obtain a password.
Regular software updates are crucial for maintaining security, as they include patches for vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit. One report found that 60% of successful data breaches were directly due to unpatched vulnerabilities. Devices running outdated software versions are particularly at risk, making it essential for users to stay vigilant and keep their software up to date. Software updates act as essential safeguards against vulnerabilities, proactively securing weak points before they can be exploited.
Although some may view cybersecurity as overly complex or solely for tech-savvy individuals, there are user-friendly cybersecurity solutions available that are accessible to everyone. Cyber safety is essential not only for IT professionals but for everyone navigating the digital landscape. By adopting these best practices, everyone can contribute to a safer online environment, protecting themselves and their information from potential threats.
Cyber safety is universal
Staying cyber safe is not the responsibility of a single age group. It is crucial for people of all ages to educate themselves on how to adopt good cyber hygiene and close that risk gap. By taking control of online safety, awareness can be transformed into action to create a safer digital environment for everyone, cultivating a culture in which cyber safety becomes second nature.
It’s time to make cybersecurity a universal priority and empower others to follow suit—not only during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, but throughout the entire year.
Robert Falzon is the Head of Engineering at Check Point Canada.
