Government security Canada’s spy agency conducted state-authorized cyberattacks against drug traffickers and ransomware gangs July 6, 2026 Share By SC Staff (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images) Canada's Communications Security Establishment (CSE) conducted a handful of state-authorized cyberattacks last year to disrupt operations of drug traffickers, violent extremists, and a ransomware gang, based on information published by TechCrunch. The CSE's annual report details three foreign "active cyber operations" targeting threats to Canadian national security. One operation disrupted a ransomware-as-a-service gang whose infrastructure was used to attack Canada's healthcare, transportation, and business sectors, rendering their systems inoperable and deleting data. Another targeted cybercriminals brokering fentanyl precursor chemicals, diminishing their operational capabilities. A third operation focused on an overseas extremist group, undermining their credibility and recruitment efforts. The agency also conducted concurrent technical disruptions against 10 significant ransomware gangs targeting Canada and a defensive operation against a phishing campaign aimed at federal institutions. These disclosures offer a rare look into the methods used by intelligence agencies to combat evolving national security threats. Source: TechCrunch SC Staff Related Government security Washington state CISO Ralph Johnson to step down in September SC Staff July 6, 2026 Washington state's chief information security officer, Ralph Johnson, announced his departure from his role in September. Government security DHS investigating breach of intelligence sharing platform SC Staff July 2, 2026 Hackers reportedly gained access to HSIN servers in late May and early June, potentially exposing sensitive but unclassified information. Government security CIA reorganizes to embrace AI and quantum computing SC Staff July 1, 2026 The CIA has reorganized key acquisition and technology directorates to prioritize emerging technologies such as AI and quantum computing. Get daily email updates SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news Business Email By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . Subscribe You can skip this ad in 5 seconds