The RCMP is warning Airdrie residents and businesses about the risks of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks as part of Cyber Security Awareness Month in October.
The attacks can overwhelm websites and online services with excessive traffic, leaving websites inaccessible, slowing networks and disrupting business operations.
The RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region’s Cybercrime Program says these attacks can interfere with essential services, including email and online sales systems, and may signal the potential for further cyber threats.
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The RCMP says DDoS attacks can take several forms, including flooding a network with traffic, overwhelming network security systems with malicious connection requests or overloading applications with seemingly legitimate website traffic.
The consequences can extend beyond temporary service disruptions. Cybercrime can also be used to steal personal information, commit identity fraud, cause reputational damage or support other illegal activities.
Businesses are encouraged to keep devices and security systems updated, use multi-factor authentication, monitor network traffic for unusual activity and establish an incident response plan.
The RCMP also recommends that organizations conduct regular security assessments and speak with their internet and cloud service providers about available protections.
Protecting personal information
While DDoS attacks primarily disrupt online services, the RCMP is also reminding individuals to practise good cybersecurity habits.
Residents are encouraged to recognize phishing attempts, fraudulent messages and scams involving artificial intelligence, use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and protect personal information when banking, shopping or accessing government services online.
The federal Get Cyber Safe campaign offers additional resources to help Canadians strengthen their online security.
Reporting cybercrime
The RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region’s Cybercrime Program investigates serious cybercrime targeting Canadian government institutions, critical infrastructure and businesses with significant economic impact.
Police say these investigations often require cooperation with partners across jurisdictions because cybercrime can cross physical borders.
Anyone who has experienced or witnessed suspected cybercrime can report it through the federal Report Cybercrime and Fraud portal.
More information about preventing DDoS attacks is available through the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security’s online guidance.
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